Title: “Intersex Rights Advocacy and Policy Reform in Zambia: A Recap of Commissioner Dr. Dennis Wamalwa’s Visit”
Introduction: In September 2023, the Intersex Society of Zambia (ISSZ) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) hosted a significant event in Legacy Resort Hotel, Zambia. The event, a Dissemination Meeting, revolved around the release of the report titled “Being Intersex in Zambia: A Policy and Legal Review.” Commissioner Dr. Dennis Wamalwa and various other dignitaries graced the occasion, which marked a milestone in the advocacy for intersex persons’ rights in Zambia.
Day 1 – September 18th, 2023
Arrival of Invited Guests The event kicked off with the arrival of distinguished guests who gathered at the Legacy Resort Hotel.
Introductions and Welcoming Remarks
- ISSZ welcomed the attendees.
- The Chairperson of the SRHR Parliamentary Caucus delivered an opening statement.
- The UNDP Executive Director provided remarks.
Advocacy Journey of ISSZ Executive Director of ISSZ showcased the journey of the Intersex Society of Zambia in advocating for the rights of intersex individuals through a video clip and testimonial from an intersex person.
Presentation of the Report Dr. Mujajati and Ms. T. Hatoongo presented the report “Being Intersex in Zambia: A Legal and Policy Review” to members of parliament.
Health Break
Presentation of the Report (Continued) Dr. Mujajati and Ms. T. Hatoongo continued their presentation of the report to members of parliament.
Plenary A plenary session was held to discuss the presented information.
African Commission’s Resolution on the Rights of Intersex Persons Berry Nibogora presented the African Commission’s resolution on the rights of intersex persons in Africa and its implications for state and non-state actors.
Introduction to KNCHR and IPICC’s Advocacy Journey Dr. Dennis Wamalwa, Commissioner of KNCHR, and Dr. Bernard Mogesa, CEO of KNCHR, provided insight into KNCHR and IPICC’s advocacy journey for intersex persons’ rights in Kenya.
Best Practices in Advocating for Law Reforms Veronica Mwangi, James Nombi, and Thomas Kibunja shared best practices for strengthening partnerships in advocating for targeted law reforms in Kenya.
Plenary and Feedback The day concluded with a plenary session and feedback from participants.
Day 2 – September 19th, 2023
Consultative Meeting with State and Non-State Actors This day focused on a consultative meeting involving state and non-state actors in policy reform for intersex persons in Zambia.
Introductions and Welcoming Remarks
- ISSZ extended welcoming remarks.
- The Human Rights Commission provided a statement.
- UNDP’s Rose Namukwai delivered remarks.
Advocacy Journey of ISSZ (Continued) A video clip and testimonial from an intersex person, along with a video clip of a child born intersex, were presented by Mphatso Sakala, Executive Director of ISSZ.
Presentation of the Report Dr. Mujajati and Ms. Hatoongo presented the report “Being Intersex in Zambia: A Legal and Policy Review.”
Tea Break
Presentation of the Report (Continued) Dr. Mujajati and Ms. Hatoongo continued their presentation of the report.
Plenary
Role of State and Non-State Actors Lisbon Chaamwe from HRC discussed the role of state and non-state actors in policy reform and advocacy for the rights of intersex persons in Zambia.
Introduction to KNCHR and IPICC’s Mandate Dr. Dennis Wamalwa, Commissioner of KNCHR, and Dr. Bernard Mogesa, CEO of KNCHR, introduced KNCHR and IPICC’s mandate and advocacy journey in Kenya.
Best Practices in Advocating for Law Reforms (Continued) The day ended with a discussion on best practices in advocating for targeted law reforms.
Day 3 – September 20th, 2023
Final Consultative Meeting on the Draft Management Protocol This day centered on the final consultative meeting regarding the Draft Management Protocol for Disorders of Sex Development – Intersex Persons in Zambia. The Kenya Delegation participated as observers.
Introductions and Welcoming Remarks
- ISSZ extended welcoming remarks.
- The Zambia Medical Association and UNDP provided statements.
Advocacy Journey of ISSZ (Continued) Mphatso Sakala, Executive Director of ISSZ, presented a video clip and testimonial from an intersex person, along with a video clip of a child born intersex.
Background to the Draft Protocol Dr. Mujajati and Ms. T. Hatoongo provided an overview of the draft protocol and highlighted its main points.
Plenary
Feedback from MOH on the Protocol Dr. Mwiche from the Ministry of Health (MOH) provided feedback on the draft protocol.
Tea Break
Word from MOH and Conclusion The Ministry of Health (MOH) delivered closing remarks, and the event concluded with discussions on the way forward.
This event marked a significant step in advocating for intersex persons’ rights in Zambia, with the presence of Commissioner Dr. Dennis Wamalwa and various other distinguished guests contributing to its success. The engagement of state and non-state actors, including the Human Rights Commission and the Kenya Delegation, highlighted the collaborative efforts to reform policies and promote the rights of intersex individuals in the region.