“Women participation in national affairs need more than ever”

By Joy Nyambe

Vice President MUTALE NALUMANGO says the participation of women in the affairs of the country is needed more than ever before as the world is going through challenging times.

Mrs. NALUMANGO says Zambia, Africa and the world at large are going through turbulent times that call for women to collaborate.

She says women are agents of peace and as such, the government places importance in addressing issues concerning women and the girl child.

The Vice president adds that Zambia is blessed to have a president who supports the affairs and welfare of women.

Mrs. NALUMANGO says Zambia has deliberately instituted the Gender Division, which sits in Cabinet and directly falls under the office of the President to look at women affairs.

The Vice President was speaking when she officially opened the inaugural African Women Leaders Network Conference in Lusaka today.

And Permanent Secretary Gender Division in the office of the President, MAINGA KABIKA said the conference is a powerful platform for advancing gender equality.

Meanwhile, United Nations Resident Coordinator BEATRICE MUTALI emphasised the UN’s commitment to providing technical support to Zambia to address gender inequality.

And African Union Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, BINETA DIOP, said there’s a need to ensure women are not left behind in governance.

And in her goodwill message, Irish Ambassador to Zambia BRONAGH CARR said her country stands with Zambia in championing gender equality.