HRC Chairperson Calls for Full Implementation of Children’s Code Act
Human Rights Commission of Zambia (HRC-Z) Chairperson, Dr Pamela Towela Sambo, has called for the full implementation of the Children’s Code Act, stressing that more must be done to protect vulnerable children across the country.
Dr Sambo made the appeal on Sunday, 3rd November 2025, as Zambia joined the global community in commemorating Orphan Sunday at Piazza Grounds, East Park Mall in Lusaka. The event brought together about 2,000 orphans and vulnerable children, as well as faith-based organisations, civil society, corporate partners and government institutions, in a show of solidarity and support.
She acknowledged Zambia’s progress in ratifying and domesticating international human rights treaties but noted that significant gaps remain in enforcement.
“The Children’s Code Act has many positive provisions, but key structures like the National Coordinating Committee for Children have not yet been fully operationalised,” she said. “There are still recurrent violations of children’s rights—child labour, detention of children in unsuitable facilities, delays in social welfare interventions, and inadequate protection for children with disabilities and those in remote areas.”
Dr Sambo encouraged children in attendance, assuring them of their intrinsic value and legal protection under Zambian law.
“You are precious in the sight of God. May you always remember your worth,” she said. “Let us continue to walk together—law, faith and community—in protecting children, upholding rights and nurturing dreams.”
Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (Zambia), Dr Joshua H.K. Banda, said caring for orphans must not be left to government alone.
“True religion is to help orphans. The responsibility of caring for orphans belongs to everyone,” he stated, urging the public to show compassion and take practical action in support of vulnerable children.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Permanent Secretary Ms Beatrice Chilomo reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring children grow up with love, protection and dignity.
“Let me assure you that you are loved, you are not alone, and you will never walk alone,” she told the gathering.
Orphan Sunday is a global Christian initiative inspired by the work of missionary Gary Schneider, who witnessed the plight of orphans in Zambia in the late 1990s and called on churches to respond. The movement has since spread worldwide, rallying communities each year to champion care, inclusion and hope for vulnerable children.
Dr Sambo concluded by urging renewed collaboration between government, civil society and faith-based organisations to turn legal commitments into real protection on the ground.
