In Zambia, women are stepping into a role they’ve rarely tackled before: professional cattle herding.

Through a partnership between Conservation International and Peace Parks Foundation, Herding for Health is empowering women to lead teams that dip and vaccinate livestock and guide grazing plans.

On International Women’s Day, we highlight the inspirational achievements of Nawelwa Christine Muyunda, a young woman proving her mettle in animal husbandry and leadership.

At 32, Nawelwa has risen to the rank of team leader for Herding for Health at Simalaha Community Conservancy. She fosters animal health through planned grazing and rangeland management.

Her career and personal success as a farmer and cattle owner, while raising two young children, has earned her the respect of the local community—including male farmers.

Despite challenges in a male-dominated field, Nawelwa’s dedication and leadership have earned her the title of ‘cow lady.’ She hopes to inspire more women to join the programme and lead by example.

Learn more about Christine’s journey here.

Stay tuned to PeaceParks.TV for the story of Vera Kahundu Mwalye, another inspiring young woman who became a professional herder as a member of the Makanga Village Action Group in 2022.