Top 13 Inonge Wina Quotes

When John F. Kennedy said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,’ that statement was not meant just for the USA but for every youth in the world.

Remember, this was the era of The Cold War, the black and civil rights movements in America, and the decolonization of Africa, so all of these had an impact on me and contributed to shaping my outlook on life and my dedication to public service.

I think the life of honourable [Alexander] Chikwanda has been a demonstration of dedication to public service. When you are a leader in politics, do not make enemies because this job of politics is neither here nor there. We are just elected to serve our people, to serve the nation and after that, you become an ordinary citizen. And you should be able to relate to other citizens in a manner that does not antagonize anybody. So there are many lessons we can learn from the life of this man. And for me, I have collaborated with him throughout our adult life. So we come from that generation of service to the nation. So that is why really, we shall miss him. His counsel and his advice have always been very genuine.

Inonge Wina speaks as Zambia’s first female Vice President

I want women to enjoy the same rights and benefits as men”

I want to see a reduction in poverty levels, ensuring that every Zambian benefits from our policies. I also hope that every girl receives an education, just like boys, and that women enjoy the same rights and opportunities as men. In 50 years, Zambia should transition from being a developing country to a middle-income country.

In response to the question, "What have you achieved in politics? Inonge Wina replied

My primary responsibility is to my constituency, where I've successfully lobbied for development. I've also made significant contributions in raising awareness of gender issues within the community.

In response to the question, "When and why did you decide to join politics?" Inonge Wina replied

I come from a family of women leaders, and my husband was also active in politics. At that time, I was working with NGOs. After my husband passed away, I made a deliberate decision; I believed that those of us in leadership positions in civil society need to step forward. I was then elected to Parliament in 2001. Initially, I served in the opposition, but since the last elections, our party, the Patriotic Front, has been in government.

It is important for us to groom other women, especially the young ones.

I think time has come for me to pass on the baton to the younger generation. We have done our part.

It was a privilege for me, but it also had the benefit of renewing the ambitions of young women in my country.