Zambia Pledges Stronger Action, Partnerships to Protect Children’s Rights
The Government of Zambia has reiterated its strong commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and welfare through robust stakeholder collaboration, policy reforms, and improved access to child protection services.
Speaking at the ongoing Child Helpline Conference in Livingstone, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Hon. Doreen Mwamba, said the government is working hand in hand with partners to ensure children’s voices are heard and protected.
Highlighting key progress, Minister Mwamba cited the enactment of the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, the amendment of the Marriage Act to clearly set the minimum age of marriage at 18, and the establishment of a multi-sectoral Child Equity Committee involving Education, Health, Home Affairs, and Justice ministries.
“With children accounting for 53% of Zambia’s population, it is our responsibility to prioritize their safety, rights, and mental health,” said Minister Mwamba. “Violence against children takes many forms, and our response must be comprehensive and inclusive.”
She stressed the importance of strengthening child helplines as essential tools for awareness, prevention, and timely support. Although there is currently no dedicated budget line for these services, the government is working with partners—including Child Helpline Zambia—to scale up toll-free, accessible platforms.
Calling Child Helpline Zambia a “silent giant” in child protection, the Minister praised the organization’s ongoing contributions and revealed ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology to sustain and expand helpline services nationwide.
The conference, themed “Children at the Center: A Global Voice for Mental Health, Violence Prevention and Response, Envisioning Child Helplines for 2030 and Beyond,” brought together stakeholders from across sectors to envision a safer, more responsive future for Zambia’s children.
