Zambia Women’s Policy

Zambia Pioneers Menstrual Leave Policy in Africa

By Marsh (Edi) Baptise

Lusaka, Zambia — In a groundbreaking move that continues to spark global attention, Zambia implemented a menstrual leave policy in 2015, becoming the only African nation to enshrine such a provision in law. The policy, popularly referred to as "Mother's Day," grants women the right to take one day off work each month during their menstrual cycle without the need to provide a medical certificate.

This progressive initiative acknowledges the physical and emotional toll menstruation can take on women, aiming to foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment. By legally recognizing the challenges many women face during their periods, Zambia has positioned itself as a leader in reproductive health rights and gender-sensitive workplace reforms.

Under the Employment Code Act, female employees are entitled to this leave regardless of whether they are parents, and employers are required to comply without demanding medical proof. This provision is designed to reduce stigma around menstruation and encourage open dialogue about menstrual health.

However, the policy has not been without its critics and challenges. Some employers have raised concerns about potential misuse of the leave, while some women have expressed hesitation in taking it due to fears of judgment or appearing less committed to their jobs. Despite these concerns, advocates argue that the policy is a vital step toward normalizing menstruation and ensuring that women do not have to choose between their health and their professional responsibilities.

As other countries continue to debate the merits of menstrual leave, Zambia's example offers a model for how national policy can be used to address gender-specific health needs in the workplace. Whether more African nations will follow Zambia's lead remains to be seen, but the conversation it has sparked is already pushing boundaries and challenging long-standing taboos.