Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Honourable Nelly B. K. Mutti, SC, MP, FAPRA, says the National Assembly remains committed to strengthening democratic participation by advancing reforms that support the increased inclusion of women, youths and persons with disabilities in Parliament.

She said such reforms are essential to improving representation and ensuring that the priorities of all citizens are reflected in national decision-making processes.

Speaking when a delegation of Members of Parliament from Finland’s Development Policy Committee accompanied by Finland Ambassador to Zambia, Her Excellency, Ms Saana Halinen, paid a courtesy call on her on Thursday, 27^th November, 2025, at Parliament Buildings, Speaker Mutti said that while Zambia has made progress in promoting inclusivity, achieving full gender parity in Parliament remains an ongoing challenge.

She noted that according to the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, the target is 50 percent women’s representation in leadership roles, a milestone Zambia is still working toward.

Speaker Mutti therefore, said Zambia could draw valuable lessons from Finland’s experience in achieving near equal gender representation in Parliament, including strategies that enhance cross-party cooperation and strengthen support systems for women and young leaders.

She added that continued collaboration with partners such as the Finnish Parliament would help Zambia advance reforms that promote equitable access to political leadership.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Finland Delegation, Mr. Jani Kokko, said Finland places strong importance on gender equality, children’s rights and girls’ education as key drivers of development.

He said societies prosper when women are empowered through education and representation, adding that nearly half of Finland’s Members of Parliament are women, a testament to inclusive governance.

Mr. Kokko further stated that Finland is committed to supporting Zambia in areas of mutual interest to accelerate national development.

And Chairperson of the Zambia-Finland Parliamentary Friendship Group, Mr Imanga Wamunyima, MP, said the Finnish visit has provided a valuable platform for Zambian Parliamentarians to learn from Finland’s reforms.

He explained that such exchanges enable Zambian lawmakers to gain insights into practical approaches and adopt innovative legislative practices from other Parliaments which could ultimately strengthen Zambia’s parliamentary system.

The Finnish delegation also held discussions with Members of the Zambia-Finland Parliamentary Friendship Group, where they explored key areas of cooperation including mining regulation, forest preservation, climate change adaptation and advancing a circular economy for sustainable growth.

The Development Policy Committee is an official advisory body to the Finnish Government. The Committee comprises Members of Parliament, experts, civil society actors and researchers from different political parties. Its aim is to strengthen dialogue on development policy and it is the only body in Finland that systematically monitors and analyses development policy.