Intimate Partner Violence in Zambia: A Systematic Review and Reanalysis of National Prevalence Estimates

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a major public health, human rights, and social development challenge in Zambia. Some national IPV indicators have shown a positive trend. However, emerging literature shows that Zambia has continued reporting high cases of physical, sexual, and emotional violence within intimate relationships. IPV cases are driven by structural inequalities, social norms, and relational dynamics, that make it a health system concern as well as a human rights issue. This study reviewed literature on Zambia published between 2021 and 2026 and reanalyzed national prevalence rates using the Zambia Demographic Health Survey (ZDHS) and peer-reviewed secondary data. A systematic review of studies and grey literature revealed evidence on prevalence, trends, correlates, consequences, and intervention responses. National estimates were reinterpreted with attention to methodological differences and denominator changes across survey rounds. The study found partner controlling behavior, alcohol use, acceptance of wife beating, lower education, witnessing parental violence, and polygynous unions as the most common drivers of IPV. Reanalysis of national estimates showed that in the 2024 ZDHS, 34% of women aged 15 to 49 had previously experienced IPV, while 25% reported IPV in the past year. Further, 29% of women had experienced physical violence since age 15years, 10% had experienced sexual violence, while only 30% of survivors sought help. The review concludes that IPV remains widespread, structurally driven, and underreported in Zambia. Addressing this phenomenon requires integrated prevention, survivor-centered services, alcohol-harm reduction, community norm change, and stronger monitoring systems.