You’re champions of change, says Wina

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Clik here to view.By ARTHUR MWANSA
MINISTER of Gender and Child Development Inonge Wina says Government will work with traditional leaders towards inspiring change at all levels of society.
Mrs Wina says this would guarantee that true peace, stability and prosperity are realised for every family, both in urban and rural areas.
The minister said this recently during the forum for female chiefs as advocates for peace and stability at Lusaka’s Mulungushi International Conference Centre.
“Your royal highnesses, you are indeed well-poised to advocate peace and stability in our nation. The country is blessed because we can depend on you. We call you champions of change because you are key holders to prosperity, peace and stability. Unless you unlock these doors, we will not see an improvement in the quality of life for all,” she said.
The Nalolo member of Parliament observed that, as the country celebrates 50 year of independence, Government would like to work with traditional leaders in ensuring that peace, stability and prosperity are attained countrywide.
Mrs Wina said the vision for her Ministry is ‘a nation where there is gender equality, equity and full realisation of children’s rights for sustainable development, adding that for this vision traditional leaders are not only drivers but also facilitators in the attainment of the vision.
Gender imbalance, Mrs Wina said continue to be perpetuated by negative perceptions and attitudes that make women and girls fail to realise their potential.
“It is, therefore, important that female chiefs influence their chiefdoms to embrace values and norms that promote the rights of men and women, boys and girls for Zambia to move forward,” Mrs Wina.
She said statistics indicate that gender imbalances and violence against women and girls are most rife in rural areas.
Mrs Wina, however, said there is still hope that Government and other stakeholders are implementing the Anti-Gender Based Violence Act No 1 of 2011 in a bid to provide for the protection of survivors of gender-based violence.
“Once we create an enabling violence free environment, we will see more women from the grassroots who will participate in the local governance structures and thus eventually translate into leadership,” she said.
The minister is hopeful that more women will be encouraged to be ward councillors and members of Parliament so that they can speak for the people.