Boy Child Advocacy Zambia Urges Action to Protect Children from Exploitation and Ensure Education Access
Boy Child Advocacy Zambia has issued an urgent call to protect vulnerable children, particularly boys, from exploitation and to ensure their access to education.
This appeal comes in response to a recent video circulating on social media featuring young Pythias Mwaaba, a boy engaged in street vending instead of attending school.
The organization expressed deep concern over the circumstances that have led to this situation, emphasizing that such actions by his guardians violate laws designed to protect children from exploitation.
The chairperson of Boy Child Advocacy Zambia, Prof. Dr. Matamyo Simwanda, highlighted the importance of distinguishing between children helping with small household chores and child labor, which is illegal and harmful to a child’s future. “Child labor, in any form, is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to a child’s well-being and future,” Dr. Simwanda stated.
The organization has urged guardians, especially those caring for vulnerable children like orphans, to prioritize the safety and education of these children.
Dr. Simwanda stressed that every child, including Pythias, deserves the opportunity to attend school and enjoy a childhood free from adult responsibilities. Street vending, they warned, not only disrupts education but also endangers the child’s future prospects.
Boy Child Advocacy Zambia is calling on all parents and guardians to reflect on their responsibilities and seek assistance from government institutions and other stakeholders when facing challenges, particularly those related to educational sponsorship.
The organization emphasized that numerous resources are available to help ensure children receive the support they need to thrive.
Dr. Simwanda assured that Boy Child Advocacy Zambia is committed to providing professional advice on where to seek necessary help and is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure that no child is left behind.
The organization urges collective action to advocate for the rights of children and to create a brighter future for them.
