On 22 January, Build It hosted its Women in Construction (WiC) 2026 conference bringing together a vibrant and committed community united in driving gender inclusion across the construction sector.  

Held at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, this second conference delivered a day of insight, collaboration, and action. 

Uniting voices across the sector

This year’s theme, “Systems to site: Diversity builds productivity,” brought together contractors, government representatives, training institutions, regulators, development partners, and young people in the sector.  

The conference created a space to discuss how gender affects training, recruitment, workplace culture, and career growth in construction. 

The conference was officially opened by the Ministry of Technology and Science, represented by Ms. Precious Mushiba Lisulo, Director of Vocational Education and Training. In her keynote address, Ms Lisulo underscored the importance of acknowledging and removing the challenges women continue to face in male‑dominated fields:

“The role of Government in this regard is clear. We must dismantle these barriers through deliberate policy reform, institutional strengthening, and strategic partnerships with development partners and the private sector.”  

Ms. Precious M Lisulo, Director of Vocational Education and Training representing the Ministry of Technology and Science 

Participants explored practical ways to support more women transitioning from training into decent, sustainable employment. They also highlighted the vital role of male allyship in strengthening women’s progression and leadership across the industry. 

Build It graduate Jemimah Sambo reflects on her journey in construction – from training with us in 2022, to building her career with courage, confidence and purpose

The panel discussions challenged long‑standing norms, examined systemic barriers, and encouraged attendees to take action within their own areas to help build a more inclusive and productive sector. 

Eng. Namuunza Busiku

Conference delegate Eng. Namuunza Busiku said: “This is my first time attending this conference and I’m happy about all the different discussions that were held.

I was particularly impressed to hear about the different policies that are being put in place to see to the training, employment and retention of women in the construction industry. This conference has tabled topics that are relevant in ensuring inclusion and growth in the industry… I’m also very excited over the Build It With Her campaign that Build It is rolling out.”

Seated on the front row from left to right: Programs Manager Education, Skills and Gender from Irish Embassy Miyanda Kwambwa, Build It Board Chair Eng. Lucie Kasanga, Director of Vocational Education and Training Ministry of Technology and Science Precious M Lisulo, and Build It Board Member Wilson Sumaili.

Key learnings from WiC 2026:

• Significant policy gaps remain, particularly regarding gender, gender‑based violence (GBV), and sexual harassment within the sector. 

• Gender compliance was described as non‑negotiable, with a proposal to introduce a gender scorecard as part of training institution accreditation. 

• Stronger enforcement of existing gender policies across the construction industry is needed.

• Practical challenges persist, including insufficient sanitation facilities on construction sites and the lack of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for women. 

• Improving occupational safety, health, and sanitation was identified as essential for achieving genuine inclusion and dignity in the workplace. 

A note of thanks

We extend our sincere thanks to all partners, stakeholders and guests who supported this conference, and for contributing to conversations that are essential to the future of the building industry. 

The conference is part of our three-year project aimed at increasing the participation of women in the construction sector by 2027, which is generously supported by the Government of Ireland. 

For more information on the conference, please contact Bwalya Mushiki, Advocacy Project Specialist via [email protected]