A Zambian law, which permits women to take the day off work due to the arrival of their menstrual periods, has sparked mixed reactions from citizens.
The day off, called ‘Mother’s Day’, applies to all women menstruating, whether or not they have children.
It also does not require female employees to provide any doctor’s report or proof of medical discomfort, but simply placing a phone call to request the day off. An employer who refuses women this privilege might face legal action.
The fact that the law does not clearly state that women are required to stay indoors all day has caused a lot of confusion.
‘I think it’s a good law because women go through a lot when they are on their menses (periods).’ Ndekela Mazimba, a public relations personnel said. Although she is unmarried nor has any kids, Ndekela is one of those women who suffer terrible period cramps and is pleased with the law.
She continued: ‘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.’
Ms Mazimba’s boss, Justin Mukosa, a married man, says he understands and supports the law as women face a lot of pressure balancing family and work.
‘The reason why mother’s day is important within the Zambian context is that it recognizes that women are the primary care-givers in our society – regardless of whether they are married or not,’ a Zambian senior lawyer told the BBC.
However, a lot of people, including women, disagree with the law, stating that periods were a natural part of being a woman and that some might want to play smart by taking advantage of the day to partake in other activities.
No Fields Found.