The Zambia Anglican Council Outreach Programme -ZACOP, has today, launched the Gender Equality and Justice Programme, aimed at promoting gender equality and combating gender-based violence (GBV) in communities.
Speaking at the launch, Gender Division Permanent Secretary Mainga D. Kabika, commended ZACOP for demonstrating courageous leadership and moral responsibility in promoting gender equality and justice. Ms. Kabika has emphasized that the programme is a movement to reaffirm the dignity of every human being, regardless of their gender.
In her keynote speech, she stated that despite progress made in recognizing women’s rights, many women and girls still face barriers such as sexual violence, discrimination, and limited access to education and healthcare, urging stakeholders to be proactive in combating GBV and rising to the occasion of ending sexual violence.
“As a country, we have made significant progress in recognizing the rights of women, girls and boys in promoting gender equity. However, we must also acknowledge that many women and girls still face barriers such as sexual violence, discrimination, limited access to education, health care and economic opportunities.
These injustices are not only harmful to individuals, but also hold back the development of our communities of our nations at large.we cannot achieve true development without justice. We cannot have peace without equality and we cannot call ourselves a compassionate or moral society if we turn a blind eye to Gender Based Violence(GBV) unequal power structures, and cultural norms that silence or marginalize women, girls and boys.” She said.
The theme of the launch, “Embrace Justice, Celebrate Equality! Speak Out and Take Action,” aligns with the challenges and aspirations of the time, with the Permanent Secretary emphasising that justice is not a passive matter but a practice that requires bold and deliberate action.
“I call upon the church, as well as your leadership to serve as agents of transformation by embracing and championing this programme, to be fully integrated into the very fabric of the church, actively challenging all forms of injustice and barriers of gender equality. The church is a powerful stakeholder, when you speak, society adheres and responds positively. Your word or two against GBV during church services will combat GBV in society.” Ms. Kabika emphasised.
The Most Reverend, Dr. Albert Chama, Archbishop of the Anglican Church of the Province of Central Africa, and Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lusaka, were among some significant stakeholders present at the launch.
The Permanent Secretary has since urged the Church to use its influence to promote healing, inclusion, and empowerment for GBV survivors.
ENDS
GD MEDIA TEAM.
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