I have always been drawn to politics, but I pursued a career in the Foreign Service. - Gwendoline Konie

When I announced my entry into politics, I quickly gained both supporters and detractors, with neither group taking the time to understand my motivations. People don’t hate you personally; they resent your courage and willingness to take bold actions. I believe these reactions were not solely due to my being a woman.

In Zambia, many male-led parties genuinely advocate for women's equality and their representation in power, which is surprising considering the significant influence that women in civil society have in terms of organizing and voting strength.

In 1997, if you had asked me if I would run for the presidency, I would have thought you were crazy. However, as I traveled back and forth from Germany to Zambia and witnessed the economic decline and poverty, I started to rethink my position.