The Zambian government’s reported move to declare a one-day holiday for women during their menstruation has sparked remarkable reactions.
According to reports, the provision in the country’s labour law allows for women to take a day off work during their monthly menstrual cycle.
The holiday which is known as “Mother’s Day” is reported to be applicable to all women, whether with children or not.
Major controversy has however surrounded the “Mother’s Day” holiday provision in the country’s labour law.
Reacting to the development, Ndekela Mazimba a public relations personnel who spoke to BBC said: “I think it’s a good law because women go through a lot when they are on their menses (periods).
“I am neither married nor do I have children but I take my Mother’s Day every month because of my gruelling period pains.
“You might find that on the first day of your menses, you’ll have stomach cramps – really bad stomach cramps. You can take whatever painkillers but end up in bed the whole day.
“And sometimes, you find that someone is irritable before her menses start, but as they progress, it gets better.
“So, in my case, it’s just the first day to help when the symptoms are really bad.”
Another citizen, Mutinta Musokotwane-Chikopela said: “There are already too many holidays in Zambia and this one is uncalled for as women in Zambia do not need to make prior arrangements to be absent from work, but can simply call in on the day to say they are taking Mother’s Day.”
