In the town of Mansa, a cool breeze from Lake Bangweulu moves through picturesque landmarks like the Mumbuluma waterfalls. Despite the scenic beauty of the Luapula province, many women face significant challenges related to social exclusion. "My husband believed that our child's condition was a result of witchcraft, which led to his departure from home," she said. She said that in Mansa town, about 760 km north of Lusaka, Zambia's capital, there is a prevalent cultural belief linking certain illnesses to witchcraft. Despite efforts toward gender equality, women in Zambia continue to face significant challenges in accessing opportunities and achieving social inclusion, reflecting ongoing societal disparities across southern Africa.