Labour and Social Security Minister Brenda Tambatamba has encouraged women in Kasempa District to take advantage of government empowerment programmes to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development.
Speaking during International Women’s Day celebrations in Kasempa, Tambatamba said the event was an opportunity to recognise the achievements of women and girls while promoting greater inclusion in society.
“This year’s theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action For All Women and Girls,’ calls for women and girls to enjoy equal rights, access to justice and opportunities to help shape the future of the country,” Tambatamba said.
She highlighted the government’s commitment to gender equality, citing initiatives such as free education and the enhanced Constituency Development Fund as measures aimed at supporting women socially and economically.
Tambatamba urged women to form cooperatives and engage in economic activities that can support their families and communities.
“Zambia is in a different dispensation. Today, our supreme law has expanded opportunity for you women, women of Zambia, women of Kasempa, to find your way to parliament,” she said.
She also encouraged women to pursue leadership roles in councils and other governance structures to ensure their participation in decision-making processes.
“A space that has been created in parliament is not the only one. The women of Zambia must find themselves, go to the council, to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the rights of women and girls are protected and that they are fully included in the development agenda of this country,” Tambatamba said.
Tambatamba also commended women in Kasempa District for their contribution to agriculture.
“Allow me to commend the women of Kasempa District for their continued contribution to agriculture,” she said.
Kasempa Council Chairperson Brian Kankonkanya said the increasing number of women in leadership positions reflects the government’s commitment to promoting dignity and respect for women.
“It’s a great milestone because we’ve seen so many women in leadership, which only speaks to the fact that your government, our government, UPND, led by His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema is serious and focused on ensuring that the dignity and respect of women is restored,” Kankonkanya said.
