Rise in GBV aches First Lady
First Lady Mutinta Hichilema says it is unfortunate that family unity and peace is disregarded by perpetrators of Gender Based Violence who choose to victimise and brutalise their family members.
Mrs. Hichilema said that it is disheartening that while homes are traditionally regarded as safe places for occupants, perpetrators of GBV have taken advantage of the environment by making it unsafe, especially the women and girls.
Mrs. Hichilema has called on stakeholders and members of the public to remain vigilant and help relevant authorities in their quest to ensure that perpetrators of the vice are brought to book.
ZANIS reports that the First Lady has commended the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) for their tireless efforts made in helping survivors of Gender Based Violence.
“Stability of women in homes ensures unity at family level as well as at national level. However, it is quite unfortunate to note that this family unity and peace is disregarded by some people who opt to take advantage of their own family members by victimising and brutalizing them” Mrs Hichilema explained.
The First Lady said this in a speech read on her behalf by Principal Private Secretary to the First Lady Ellah Michelo during a donation of various foodstuffs to the YWCA in Lusaka yesterday.
And receiving the donation, YWCA Board Member Patricia Nyirenda thanked Mrs. Hichilema for the gesture, stating that the donation will go a long way in enabling them to provide services to the GBV survivors.
“Donations such as these have enabled the organisation to continue providing services to GBV survivors” she said.
Mrs. Nyirenda disclosed that the YWCA currently has 67 survivors in their 9 shelters spread across the country.
She however revealed that the association is constantly faced with a challenge of providing the necessities for the survivors, and is thus asking for any further assistance from well-wishers, to help cushion the demand.
ZANIS
