More detailed information about the above events has already been or will be sent to members by email.
Besides busy moments, there was a sad moment as well. It was time to say farewell to our Projects Chair and friend Gail van Schie who will be leaving Zambia in November. Chairlady Inés thanked Gail for her commitment and her personal engagement in ensuring the success of the project committee. Dear Gail, we wish you all the best, and we will certainly miss you!
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| Gail and Inés |
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| Maureen Sumbwe |
In her presentation “Making the Case for Supporting Women’s Economic Empowerment”, she gave us an insight into the lives of Zambian women. Zambia is among the 30 worst countries with highest levels of gender inequality. The poverty has a woman’s face; the majority of those living in extreme poverty are women and children. Women also form the majority of the informal sector, which accounts for 80% of the population. This makes them exposed to financial, economic and social risks and vulnerabilities. Her message was clear. There is only one way for women to escape from poverty or gender based violence: economic independence!
In addition, we were happy to welcome ladies from Chikumbuso, a grassroots project in Ng’ombe. They reach out to widows, orphans, at-risk youths and grandmothers in the township, providing free schooling for the children, as well as adult training and capacity building, income generating activities and community building programs. To learn more, please visit their site:
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| Maureen Tembo delivering her personal testimony; Thanks to Chikumbuso she could as widow generate income, feed her children and improve her self confidence   |
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| A trio of our newest members Sue, Dot and Shelly attending their first GM |
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| Busi, Gail, Ines and Sophie |
