GOVT WANTS WOMEN-PRODUCED PRODUCTS TO COMPETE ON GLOBAL MARKET

VICE President Mutale Nalumango says Government want to see to it that women produce value-added products that can compete favourably on the global market.

The Vice President said the gender parity which has been hindering women need to be addressed so that they can participate fully in the manufacturing industry.

Speaking when she officiated at the women in industry training programme yesterday organised by the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), Ms Nalumango said the manufacturing sector, which is the cornerstone of the economic landscape, provides opportunities for diversifying and industrialising the economy still faces disparities in terms of participation of women.

She said these disparities are the more reason Government is committed in dismantling them, thereby paving way for women to not only participate but to lead and innovate in this vital sector.

And Ms Nalumango said the UPND is dedicated to creating an environment where economic empowerment is not just a policy in statements, but a lived reality.

Speaking at the same event, Minister of Commerce Trade and industry Chipoka Mulenga said Zambia has shown that women are strong partners in enhancing social economic development in different areas.

Mr. Mulenga has since called on women to work together to help the country reach greater heights.

Meanwhile, ZAM vice president Fronscen Haloba said the women in industry training programme aims at accelerating equality in manufacturing, through economic empowerment.

She said ZAM is committed to advancing the role of women in the country.

She said harnessing the potential of women in industry unlocks new perspective, talents and solutions to challenges that are faced.