INFORMATION and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister, Angela Cifire has hailed the role women play in developing the Church and society.

She said it was gratifying to see that many women were participating in a number of activities aimed at enhancing human development.

Ms Cifire, who is Luangeni Member of Parliament, was speaking during a Catholic Women's League blousing ceremony for 58 women at Msupadzi Parish in Chipata on Saturday.

"The role of women in the Church cannot go unnoticed and I wish to appreciate and congratulate our gallant mothers and sisters who have always worked tirelessly in making sure that the mission mandated to the Church by Christ is accomplished," she said.

Ms Cifire said women had the potential to change lives of many people especially through their works of charity.

She advised women to work together and support one another's development efforts.

Ms Cifire also said the Catholic Church had throughout history been instrumental in fostering development in areas such as education, health, and community development in general.

She called for mutual partnership between the Government and the Church to bring about meaningful development in the lives of the people.

"The two sides have always been and will always be complementary sides in issues of development," she said.

Chipata Catholic Diocese vicar-general, Gabriel Msipu said Chipata Diocese would endeavour to work with the Government of the day to foster development in the country.

Father Msipu said the diocese had always recognised the Government as partners in development.

He said although the two parties could differ sometimes, they should always partner for the sake of development.

Fr Msipu appealed to all national leaders to strive and find solutions to the many challenges facing the country instead of engaging in idle issues.

He said there was need for a peaceful atmosphere in the country especially that the country would be going to the polls next year.

Fr Msipu said the Catholic Church was happy with the commissioning of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line because it would boost trade and accelerate development in the province.

He also alleged the Food Reserve Agency had failed farmers in Eastern Province as it was taking longer than necessary to buy maize.