08/03/2025
PRESS RELEASE
North West Press Club Saddened by Inhuman Treatment of 34-Year-Old Woman in Solwezi
8th March 2025
As Zambia joins the world in commemorating International Women's Day, the North West Press Club expresses its profound sorrow and outrage over the recent reports of inhumane treatment suffered by a 34-year-old woman from Mush*tala area in Solwezi. The alleged abuse, reportedly committed by her Egyptian employer, has left the community in shock.
According to Solwezi Central Police, a report of wrongful confinement was received on March 6, 2025, concerning an incident that took place on March 1, 2025. The complainant, a 34-year-old administrative officer at Master Mechanic in Mush*tala, reported that she was confined by her employer, M/Ahmed Kameli, following an alleged financial shortage at her workplace.
The incident occurred around 17:00hrs, when the complainant began balancing the day’s finances and discovered a K13,514 shortage. After further investigation, an additional shortage of K50,000 was identified. It is reported that the employer, upon discovering the financial discrepancies, confined the employee in his office, locked all the doors, and left her there overnight. The following morning, the employer’s brother unlocked the door, allowing the woman to leave.
During the confinement, it is alleged that the employer subjected the woman to physical abuse, including slapping, and also committed acts of sexual assault. The suspect is currently in police custody, and investigations are ongoing.
The Vice President in charge of Administration, Bertha Pata, expressed deep concern over the nature of the incident, describing the abuse as both shocking and painful. "This incident makes sad reading and is especially disheartening as we observe International Women's Day. The timing of this abuse is unfortunate as it highlights the ongoing struggles women face even in the midst of celebrations," Ms. Pata said.
She further emphasized that International Women's Day serves as a reminder of the persistent inequalities that women face globally, including gender-based violence, discrimination, and marginalization. "Despite the progress that has been made, women continue to endure inhumane treatment, which should not be the case," Ms. Pata added.
Ms. Pata strongly condemned the systemic and structural barriers that perpetuate violence against women and limit their access to education, economic opportunities, and justice. "We recognize the resilience and strength of women who have survived and resisted these injustices," she remarked.
She has also urged the media in the province to prioritize reporting on issues that concern women, especially in cases like this one, where women's rights and dignity have been violated.
The North West Press Club has called for thorough and impartial investigations into the matter, urging the authorities to ensure that justice is served in a fair and timely manner. Ms. Pata emphasized, "While the woman may have been responsible for a financial misappropriation, that does not in any way justify the abuse she suffered at the hands of her employer."
She concluded by wishing all women in North Western Province and Zambia at large a Happy Women's Day, emphasizing the need for continued support, empowerment, and justice for women.
Issued by:
Anthony Tapa
General Secretary, North West Press Club