Luangeni women empowered

Luangeni women empowered

Chipata, October 13,2014,ZANIS…Twenty women clubs of Luangeni constituency in Chipata have been empowered with  K164, 000 under the Ministry of Community Mother and Child Health to improve income generation activities.

Luangeni Member of Parliament Charles Zulu handed-over the cheques to the clubs at a ceremony held over the weekend at Jerusalem sub-centre.

Mr Zulu said the funds were  a clear indication that government was committed to improving the lives of women in rural areas through empowerment of clubs which can engage in Income generating activities .

“This money is from the national treasury, it is supposed to multiply, avoid misuse as we do not want to encourage habits of groups sharing money before it is put in the activities,” said Mr Zulu.

Mr Zulu stated that government has been supporting income generating activities in its quest to ensure that women are economically empowered  to fight poverty at community and household levels hence the need for women to also show commitment by putting money to good use.

He however advised those whose application forms were still in process to be patient as government remains committed to supporting  efforts by women to eradicate poverty at both community and household leves.

Among the beneficiaries were Galamukani women’s clubs, Tigwirenchito women’s Development Association and Mutendere women’s club.

Others are Kaphandeni, Chimwala, Khamaniweka development group and Sekani women’s clubs.

And speaking at the same function Ireen Soko, Treasurer for Jerusalem Area Development Association advised women to ensure the funds are put to intended purposes.

And District Welfare Officer Nelson Banda noted that government through his department has set aside funds for grants for women groups for their various income generating activities.

He said thiswais in an effort to empower women for them to take part in national development because they are at the centre of looking after families.

Mr. Zulu also donated a wheelchair to a 24 year-old physically disabled man, Panganani Soko of poloto village in Chief Maguya who was carried on his mother’s back since he was a baby.

And his 61 year old mother, Tisuleko Shumba expressed happiness saying she had difficulties carrying her son on the back for 24 years.