Gov’t and UNICEF Boost Child Protection with ICT Equipment Donation
The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services has received a significant boost to its child protection efforts following the donation of ICT equipment from UNICEF, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of child helpline services in Zambia.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Hon. Doreen Mwamba, underscored the urgency of addressing violence against children, calling it a hidden crisis often silenced by fear and stigma.
“The child helpline gives children a voice, but that voice must be heard. With this equipment, we can ensure someone is always ready to listen, respond, and act,” she said.
The donated ICT equipment, including desktop computers, monitors, and uninterrupted power supplies, will be distributed to the Ministry and Lifeline Childline Zambia, the NGO that operates Zambia’s national child helpline. The equipment is expected to strengthen service delivery, improve response times, and enhance data management and reporting.
Minister Mwamba also urged Lifeline Childline to install billboards displaying the child helpline number at key public entry points such as airports and intercity bus stations, so that vulnerable children in transit can easily access support.
UNICEF Zambia Representative, Dr. Nejmudin Kebir Bilal, reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to child welfare in Zambia, noting, “This donation reflects our shared vision to ensure that every child in Zambia is protected, supported, and heard.”
Lifeline Childline CEO, Ms. Florence Nkhuwa, welcomed the support, highlighting that their multilingual call centers allow children from diverse backgrounds to receive help in their native languages, ensuring no child is left behind.
