国际英语新闻:Zambian leader calls for steps to tackle gender inequalities

LUSAKA, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemoration of the 2019 International Women's Day on Friday with President Edgar Lungu calling for revolutionary steps to end gender inequalities.

While acknowledging that steps have been made in tackling gender inequalities in the country, the Zambian leader expressed concern that women were still facing challenges in various sectors in the country.

The Zambian leader said tackling gender inequalities have partly been fueled by traditional beliefs of male dominance in society, which he said needs to be changed as both men and women were equal.

According to him, there was need to evaluate the various efforts being undertaken to tackle gender inequalities and come up with more pragmatic steps.

He further pledged that his government will continue to implement various programs aimed at empowering women and girls in the country.

Mary Mulenga, Chairperson of the Non-Governmental Organization Coordinating Council, a coalition of various organizations representing women, said it was unfortunate that women still face marginalization in various spheres of society despite measures put in place to enhance gender equality.

She said it was unfortunate that women still face challenges in accessing reproductive health services, resulting in some dying during child birth.

The women movement has since called for the actualization of the gender equity committee, which she said, will go a long way in promoting gender equality in the country.