Zambia News
NGOCC Concerned Over 2024 Budget’s Gender Blindness and Constitution Review
In a recent statement, the Non Governmental Gender Organisation Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has expressed deep concern regarding the 2024 budget’s failure to allocate provisions for the critical constitution review process. NGOCC’s Executive Director, Anne Anamela, emphasized the significance of an expanded Bill of Rights for the protection of women and children’s rights, calling on the government to consider facilitating a standalone National Referendum before the 2026 elections.
Ms. Anamela’s remarks shed light on the urgency of addressing the long-standing issue of gender-blind budgets in the country. She pointed out that the 2024 budget, like its predecessors, does not adequately address the specific needs and concerns of women, men, girls, and boys. This lack of gender responsiveness has been a persistent problem, and she urged both the Ministry of Finance and National Planning and the legislature to rectify it.
The women’s movement is deeply concerned that the 2024 budget, much like previous budgets, remains gender blind,” said Ms. Anamela. “It is essential that our national budgets are not only gender-responsive but also sensitive to the differentiated needs of all citizens. Gender should be a fundamental consideration in the budgeting process.”
One of the central concerns raised by NGOCC is the absence of provisions for the operationalization of the Gender Equity and Equality Act. Specifically, Ms. Anamela emphasized the need for establishing the Gender Commission, which is a constitutional imperative. The Gender Commission plays a pivotal role in promoting and ensuring gender equity and equality within the country.
“The Gender Equity and Equality Act is a landmark legislation aimed at addressing gender disparities and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” Ms. Anamela noted. “However, its effectiveness is hampered by the lack of funding for the establishment and functioning of the Gender Commission. This is a critical oversight that needs immediate attention.”
NGOCC’s call for a National Referendum to address the Bill of Rights and their demand for gender-responsive budgets and the operationalization of the Gender Equity and Equality Act have garnered support from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, women’s rights advocates, and concerned citizens.
Dr. Jane Mwamba, a gender equality advocate, stated, “It is disheartening to see that the government has not allocated resources for the constitution review and the establishment of the Gender Commission. These are fundamental steps towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Source: BNN Breaking
President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.
Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.
Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.
Source: aljazeera
In other news – It all ended in tears for Faith Nketsi
News that well-known Mzansi reality TV star and influencer, Faith Nketsi whose full name is Mapholoso Faith Nketsi was finally divorcing her short-term husband Nzuzo Njilo was met with relief from fans of the reality star and businesswoman.
The reason behind the celebration of the divorce was because Faith’s brand took some knocks when her husband’s corrupt business ways were aired on the covers of Mzansi’s biggest. Read more
The leader of the opposition in Parliament, Robert Chabinga, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for demonstrating a spirit of unity and magnanimity towards his predecessor, former President Edgar Lungu. In the midst of heightened provocations, Mr. Chabinga emphasized that President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are not responsible for the challenges within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF).
Speaking from his position as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga, Mr. Chabinga advised PF Members of Parliament to acknowledge the changed leadership in the National Assembly. He urged them to embrace discipline and decorum in the legislative body, emphasizing the importance of non-political conduct and effective representation aligned with the wishes of the electorate.
“President Hichilema has demonstrated love towards his predecessor, former President Lungu, even in the face of heightened provocation. The challenges within the PF should not be laid at the doorstep of President Hichilema and the UPND. It is essential for PF MPs to accept the new reality and move forward,” stated Mr. Chabinga in a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka.
He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline in the National Assembly, urging MPs to prioritize the interests of the people who elected them. Mr. Chabinga emphasized the need for constructive checks and balances from opposition MPs, fostering an environment of cooperation and effective governance.
“Opposition MPs have a crucial role in providing constructive checks and balances in the House. It is imperative for all MPs to refrain from antagonizing one another and focus on contributing positively to the legislative process,” added Mr. Chabinga.
Source: Lusakatimes
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