The YWCA in Zambia was born at the time of heightened political division as the country was then part of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland ( now Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi ) where the white settler minority had imposed their rule over the African majority.

Racial segregation created a lot of tension, and people lived in fear. Through the YWCA, African and white Christian women would organise and meet regularly in small groups for fellowship and prayer. They defied the law which did not allow races to mix or socialise. These early pioneering women, Inonge among them, were moved by the motto “By Love Serve One Another.” From these early beginnings, the YWCA broke the chains of colour bar and racial barrier.

Inonge’s association with the YWCA has become a life long engagement. She rose in the YWCA ranks as a volunteer from 1966 to date and has contributed greatly to making the YWCA a highly respected organisation in Zambia.

During her tenure as National President, the YWCA embarked on a vigorous advocacy programme that addressed the human rights abuses of women in the country during this period and went further to address the practical needs of abused women by offering support services. This included the establishment of Laweni Women’s Shelter in Lusaka and Drop-In Centres for abused women and children in cities of Zambia. During this period, the YWCA undertook programmes to promote human resources development to empower more women. Under her leadership, the YWCA of Zambia became the lead organisation on issues related to violence against women. The YWCA of Zambia also went on to assist the Government to establish Victim Support Unit.

Inonge was recognised for her leadership qualities by the women’s movement in 1994 when she was elected National Chairperson of the Non-Governmental Co-ordinating Committee, and umbrella body for all women in NGO’s in Zambia.

As a leader, Inonge has served on many government and private boards including the University of Zambia Council, Zambia Investment Board and the National Economics Advisory Council to name a few.

In 2002, Inonge was elected Member of Parliament for Nalolo Constituency following the Parliamentary and Presidential elections in Zambia. In Parliament, she was elected Chairperson of the Caucus of all female members of Parliament including ministers.

She chaired the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Governance, Gender Matters, Legal Affairs and Human Rights. She was also a Board Member of Regional Women’s Parliamentary Caucus of the South African Development Committee, whose aim is to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of women Parliamentarians in achieving gender equity and equality.

Inonge has demonstrated an exemplary life of service to the people of her country with passion.

Honoured by: Katembu Kaumba

Related Links:

• History of the World YWCA Day
• LISTEN to she who speaks: Read the stories of remarkable YWCA women leaders who have affected change
• Round-The-World Breakfast: Tips
• Power to Change Fund: make a donation
• Honouring Women Leaders