Mkushi District Commissioner Jonathan Kapungwe has challenged sex workers in the district to take advantage of empowerment programmes in order to improve their livelihoods.

Mr Kapungwe observes that sex trade is a life risking venture especially that women are picked by strangers.

He was speaking when he officiated at the handover ceremony of materials for tailoring and poultry farming to former sex workers, with support from Tasintha Programme.

Mr Kapungwe commended Tasintha Programme for transforming the lives of young women engaging in sex work in the district into productive citizens.

He encouraged the young women to embrace change, and do productive things that would add value to their lives than resorting to illicit activities like commercial sex, among others.

He noted that the government desires to see that its citizens, especially women and youths are empowered with skills to live dignified lives.

He indicated that the government through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) is implementing various programmes aimed at empowering young people and women in the district.

“CDF is meant to benefit everyone, including sex workers,” he stressed.

He added that there is a need for communities to be comprehensively informed about the CDF in order for them to make well-informed decisions.

Mr Kapungwe urged the people of Mkushi to work closely with the local authority for guidance on how to access the fund.