By SARAH TEMBO –

GENDER Minister Inonge Wina says female freedom fighters in Zambia are not adequately being recognised and appreciated.
Ms Wina said there was need to correct the notion that freedom fighters were exclusively men because gallant female freedom fighters
also made life-threatening sacrifices in the struggle for independence.
“In this regard, it is my wish that our country’s history be documented properly so that the contribution of our women in the struggle for freedom is explicitly outlined,” Ms Wina said.
She was speaking in Lusaka during the Mama Julia Chikamoneka Award presentation on Friday.
This year’s award was given to Mama Betty Chilongo Chilunga, 76, one of the female freedom fighters.
Ms Wina also noted that the empowerment of women was crucial in building strong economies in any nation.
She said if women were empowered, this would enable them to actively participate in socio-economic life across all sectors.
The minister said if issues that deterred women’s progress were addressed, the country would be able to achieve sustainable development as well as reduce poverty and violence.
“The Government is aware that the inclusion of women’s talents, skills, experience and energies requires international action and deliberate policies,” Ms Wina said.
“In this regard my ministry is coordinating the implementation of gender mainstreaming strategies to facilitate gender responsive
development which would see more women in positions of leadership at various levels.”
Speaking at the same event, chairperson of the Press Freedom Committee of The Post Namatama Mundia said female freedom fighters deserved to be honoured because they fought a noble battle and lived their lives in pursuit of a better Zambia.
Mama Chilunga called on the Zambian people to shield the peace that the country was enjoying today because blood was shed to attain it.