In Zambia, violence against women is unfortunately all too common, with 47% of married women having faced abuse from their spouses. Recognizing that everyone is made in God’s image and deserves a life free from abuse, World Renew has been working in Zambian communities where gender injustice is a serious issue.

Through World Renew and its local partner, Francisco became involved in a project in his village. The project focused on gender justice, and Francisco quickly became a gender volunteer. But before this, his life was very different, marked by actions that suppressed the freedom and rights of women.

Francisco shares, “I used to live in a way that wasn’t right, often hurting my wife and children because I didn’t understand human rights or the importance of giving my family freedom. I drank a lot and frequently beat my wife. She never had a say in anything; I made all the decisions and controlled all our money. My wife didn’t even know how our earnings were spent. I didn’t care about her wellbeing or rights. But after joining the World Renew programs, learning about farming as a business, and understanding gender roles, I began to change.”

“The gender lessons were eye-opening. I realized I needed to change. I stopped drinking and told my wife that I would be a better husband,” Francisco continues.

Angela, Francisco’s wife, confirms his transformation with a smile. “My husband has changed,” she says. “We no longer have problems in our marriage because we do everything together. We budget together, and I help make decisions for our family. I now have access to resources and can help decide how we spend our money. We are equal partners.”

Francisco has become a role model for change and is committed to being a gender rights champion in his community. He now sees Angela as an image bearer of God, worthy of respect and equality.

Your gifts make transformations like Francisco’s possible. Families once experiencing the turmoil of gender-based violence are now finding a better, more equal way to live. Thank you for sharing the gift of peace and justice today.