Internation Women's Day 2010

As I am discovering with Zambian timings everything starts a bit later than planned but once the day got underway most of Mazabuka could hear the sound of the marching women. The women wore colourful chitengas (brightly painted skirts), which differed depending on which group they belongd to i.e. Police, Health workers, Zambia Sugar, Council staff, a local restaurant etc.  They were accompanied by the Salvation Army band and marched to the tune of Equal rights, Equal opportunities, Progress for all. There were shouts of "Viva women" and "Go women go", and lots of screaming of aeiiii, aeiiii, aeiiii (or something like this which is a sign of agreement and happiness).  When the marching stopped there were speeches by local dignatories such as the mayor, district commissioner and local MP followed by each group of women taking their turn to dance and voice their support for their rights.  It was very enjoyable and colourful, and a local man who befriended me acted as by guide in explaining all the rituals and dancing.  The only downside was whitey me getting a bit sunburnt!