Govt turns to Church leaders to help stamp out GBV

Gender Minister Professor Nkandu Luo

Government has called on religious leaders to use their podium to preach Gender Based Violence (GBV) to the people.

Gender Minister Professor Nkandu Luo says religious leaders are very important because when a person is disturbed he or she seeks help from the religious leaders.

Speaking during the HeforShe Campaign among Faith Based Organizations, Professor Luo says when problems occur in marriage; people run to the religious leaders for advice hence the need for them to preach GBV.

She says the role they play can make changes in the minds of people, because they are the ones who advise people.

Professor Luo says every now and then girls are raped, and some of the perpetrators are those who should protect them.

And Speaking at the same event UNDP Country Director Martin Maya says there is need for religious leaders to be part of the advancement of gender equality and empowerment of women in Zambia.

Mr. Maya says gender inequality is a violation of fundamental human rights saying women rights are human rights and her at the core of every religious doctrine.

Speaking earlier EFZ executive director Reverend Pukuta Mwanza says the Indaba should serve as a reminder for all church leaders to preach to the male folk that they all need to be fully engaged in matters of gender equality and equity.