First Lady, Esther Lungu calls for action to protect the under-privileged persons in society

First Lady, Esther Lungu says there is need to stand up and take action to protect under-privileged persons in society.

Mrs Lungu says it is sad that women constitute the majority of poor people and bear the brunt of economic, health and social shocks.

She says after watching TV 2 news’ story of the plight of Mary Nanyangwe, a Lusaka widow, she felt compelled to assist the family of Lusaka’s Chunga compound.

Mrs Lungu was speaking in Lusaka at a ground breaking ceremony for a house, to be built for Ms Nanyangwe, with support from Habitat for Humanity Zambia and Standard Chartered Bank.

The First Lady has reiterated the need for Ms Nanyangwe, who has been living in a run-down structure, to continue praying to God, and take the gesture as an opportunity to end the cycle of poverty in her family.

And speaking at the same event, Standard Chartered Bank Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Okai said the financial institution is committed to supporting the local community.

Ms Okai said the bank is delighted to empower Ms Nanyangwe and her family with decent shelter.

Meanwhile, Habitat for Humanity Board Chairperson, Douglas Katengo said reaching the goal of adequate, safe and affordable housing for all, is the mission for the organisation.

And the beneficiary, Ms Nanyangwe, who openly shed tears of joy, has thanked Mrs Lungu for coming to her aid.