International Women's Day

Tuesday March 8 was International Women's Day, which is celebrated as a public holiday in Zambia. To celebrate, women (and a few male allies – good to see) march through town under various banners in coordinated outfits. The march ends up at a central location for a variety of speeches and other activities. It was certainly a nice treat to have a day off for this.

This year, so I am told, the riots of the previous week had disturbed the planning for International Women's Day. So the march was pushed to Friday. Of course, I went out to have a look and add my support. Everyone appeared to be having such a great time that Friday became a de facto holiday as well. I returned to the office for most of the day, where it was nice and quiet for a change!

 

Ladies from the Council marching in the parade.