Zambian Child Trafficked to Mozambique Successfully Repatriated
The Zambian government has announced the successful repatriation of a 1-year and 8-month-old child who was trafficked to Mozambique. The child, reportedly taken from Lundazi District in October 2023, was found in a care facility in Tete, Mozambique.
In a press statement, the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami, expressed relief and pride in the child’s safe return.
She highlighted the role of Zambia’s National Referral Mechanism, which coordinates a multi-sectoral response to trafficking cases, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.
“The Children’s Code Act of 2022 and the Anti-Human Trafficking Act of 2008 are vital legal frameworks that protect children from trafficking,” Ms. Kawandami said, emphasizing Zambia’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights.
The case was first reported to the Lundazi Police Station on October 28, 2023, and a year of continuous efforts, including collaboration with the Ministries of Community Development and Social Services, Home Affairs, Zambia Police Service’s Anti-Human Trafficking Department, and Interpol, led to the successful repatriation.
Ms. Kawandami also raised awareness about the growing threat of human trafficking, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious cases.
Ministry of Home Affairs Director for Anti-Human Trafficking, Boris Mulengu, praised the cooperation between Zambia and Mozambique, emphasizing the importance of inter-governmental collaboration in combating human trafficking.
The child’s mother expressed deep gratitude for her child’s safe return, thanking the Zambian government and all agencies involved for their relentless efforts in securing her child’s release.
