Purple Day, held annually on 26 March, is a global movement to raise awareness of epilepsy, challenge stigma, and show solidarity with those living with the condition. Epilepsy is one of the world’s most common neurological disorders — and it is treatable. With proper medical care, up to 70% of people with epilepsy could live seizure-free lives.

Yet in Zambia, epilepsy remains deeply misunderstood and highly stigmatized. Historically associated with mental illness or witchcraft, the condition continues to carry significant social consequences. In Zambia, an estimated 14.5 per 1,000 people are living with epilepsy — higher than the global average. 

Funds raised through Purple Day events and t-shirt sales will be donated to the Epilepsy Association of Zambia, a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to reducing stigma, improving clinical care, and expanding public awareness across Zambia. They aim to normalise epilepsy as a manageable medical condition and ensure that every person living with epilepsy in Zambia is treated with dignity, understanding, and access to proper care.

Thursday 26th March - PURPLE DAY! Please wear your purple day t-shirts with pride!

Please also save the date for the following confirmed events:

• Thursday 26th March - Purple Trivia at the Villagers

• Friday 27th March - Purple Party at the Lion’s Den featuring bingo, music and more

• Sunday 29th March - Purple Family Picnic at Little Bird

Through these events and fundraising activities, we aim to raise funds to purchase a portable electroencephalogram (EEG) machine, a critical tool for the accurate diagnosis of epilepsy in Zambia. This equipment will allow testing to take place beyond major urban centres, significantly improving access to diagnostic services. Additionally, we aim to fund the training of a dedicated practitioner to operate the machine and deliver services in multiple locations across the country. The total cost of procuring the equipment and training is approximately USD $10,000. Any funds raised beyond this target will be invested in developing and distributing epilepsy education materials for schools, equipping teachers with the knowledge and confidence to support students living with epilepsy.

For more information about Purple Day and ways you or your business can get involved, please contact Lizzie on +260 764101956 or email huntlizzies@gmail.com.