Simbyakula urges men to take responsibility of bridging gender gap

—————–Justice Minister Ngosa Simbyakula says time has come for men to accept the responsibility of bridging the gender gap.

Dr. Simbyakula pointed out that women should not be made to carry the burden of fighting for gender equality on their own saying government is prepared to lead the promotion of gender equality.

Dr. Simbyakula said this in Siavonga today when he officiated at this year’s International Women’s Day.

He noted that government is committed to issues of poverty amongst women especially in rural areas were rural empowerment programme is set to begin.

The Justice Minister disclosed that stop centres have been built around the country as safe spaces for survivors of Gender Based Violence (GBV).

Dr Simbyakula said that in future the women’s day should be used to address challenges affecting women such as gender based violence, early marriages, and celebrating their success.

He said despite the activism on women activities, poverty still has a woman face, as most of them still have low levels of illiteracy,  poor access to health services, and early marriages are at 40 percent.

However, Siavonga women Chairperson Lizzy Nkonjela has appealed to government to close the gap between men and women by providing equal access to justice and safety, and to share power equally between men and women.

Ms Nkonjela also called on the business community and the human rights commission to take up necessary measures to ensure gender equality is achieved.

This year’s theme is Gender is my Agenda: make it happen.