Zambia Launches New Policies to Strengthen Child Justice System
The Government of Zambia has launched five major policy documents aimed at reinforcing the country’s child justice system, particularly in cases involving survivors of sexual and other forms of violence.
The initiative, led by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services in collaboration with the Judiciary, the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), and the Zambia Police Service, seeks to enhance coordination, promote restorative justice, and uphold children’s rights.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms. Doreen Mwamba, in a speech delivered on her behalf by the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Mr. Elvis Nkandu, described the event as a “major milestone” in Zambia’s efforts to protect children.
“The launch of these policy documents is not merely a milestone, but a call to action. Their true impact will be measured not by their content, but by their implementation,” Ms. Mwamba said.
The five policy documents unveiled are:
- The National Diversion Framework;
- The Revised National Child Justice Strategy and Action Plan (2022–2026);
- The Prosecutors’ Handbook on Sexual Violence (2nd Edition);
- The Zambia Police Guidelines on Handling Children in the Criminal Justice System; and
- The Prosecutors’ Guidelines on the Management of Children in the Criminal Justice System.
Ms. Mwamba emphasised that the new tools will strengthen inter-agency coordination, foster child-friendly justice processes, and ensure that children in conflict with the law are treated fairly and humanely, in line with the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief Justice, Dr. Mumba Malila, SC, Deputy Justice William Mweemba said the National Child Justice Strategy and Action Plan (2022–2026) provides a unified framework for stakeholders, addressing policy gaps and improving service delivery.
Meanwhile, Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Gilbert Phiri, SC, said the new guidelines will enhance prosecutorial practice by offering clear principles for managing cases involving children and victims of sexual violence. He highlighted that the updated Prosecutors’ Handbook on Sexual Violence includes guidance on addressing online sexual abuse, an emerging area of concern.
Inspector General of Police, Mr. Graphel Musamba, reaffirmed the Zambia Police Service’s commitment to treating children with fairness and respect, adding that the new guidelines will promote professionalism and a rehabilitative approach among officers.
UNICEF Deputy Representative, Dr. Nejmudin Kedir Bilal, commended the Government of Zambia for its leadership in promoting children’s rights, reaffirming UNICEF’s continued support towards building a more inclusive and child-centred justice system.
