LUSAKA, March 6 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Edgar Lungu has declared March 9, the day after the International Women's Day, a public holiday, a senior official said Tuesday.

On Thursday, Zambia will join the rest of the world in commemorating the International Women's Day under the theme "Press for Progress."

Roland Msiska, Secretary to the Cabinet who is in charge of the public service, said the declaration was in honor of women.

He highlighted in a statement the need for the public to reflect on the theme of this year by helping enhance the lives of rural women through their contribution to the welfare of the marginalized in society.

The government further urged the youth, who will be commemorating the Youth Day on March 12, to leverage on the opportunities being created in the Information, Communication Technology (ICT) sectors to further improve their livelihood.