In commemoration of International Women’s Day and Youth Day 2026, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Secretary General (SG), Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, was invited as a keynote speaker for a special mentorship session hosted by the World Food Programme (WFP) Zambia office.
The joint celebration served as a meaningful platform to reflect on the progress made in advancing gender equality and youth empowerment, while also acknowledging the persistent challenges and exploring future opportunities for women and young professionals across organizations and beyond.
The presence of the Secretary General as keynote speaker carried significant weight, positioning her not only as a distinguished leader but also as a mentor. With her extensive experience within the multilateral system, Ms. Kapwepwe shared invaluable insights on resilience, leadership, and navigating complex professional landscapes. Her address underscored the importance of purpose-driven careers, adaptability, and the courage to lead in evolving global environments.
Opening the session, Cissy Kabasuuga, Representative and Country Director of the World Food Programme, welcomed the participants and expressed sincere appreciation to the COMESA SG for honoring the invitation and engaging with staff. She also highlighted WFP’s continued commitment to gender equality and youth inclusion within its workforce.
Currently, gender parity at WFP stands at 43%, with women occupying 47% of management roles, reflecting strong progress in leadership representation. The organization also takes pride in promoting inclusivity across all roles, including having three female drivers. At the Field Office level, gender parity averages around 25%, indicating areas where continued efforts are needed.
From a youth perspective, 20% of WFP staff are below the age of 30, while a significant 72% range between the ages of 21 and 40. These figures underscore the organization’s youthful workforce and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
The mentorship session provided WFP staff with a unique opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge and practical lessons from a seasoned leader. Through candid reflections and shared experiences, participants were encouraged to build confidence, sharpen their career focus, and ignite new aspirations.
This engagement reflects WFP’s strong commitment to cultivating a culture of continuous learning and personal development. By creating spaces for mentorship and dialogue, the organization continues to empower its workforce to thrive both professionally and personally.
As the world continues to champion inclusivity and equal opportunity, such initiatives remain critical in shaping a future where women and young professionals are equipped, inspired, and supported to lead.