Government has launched the Community and Statutory Case Management guidelines and handbook aimed at improving service delivery for Vulnerable Children and Adolescents (VCA’s) and their families.

Speaking at the launch this morning, Community Development and Social Services Minister, Ms. Doreen Mwamba,
noted that children and adolescents in Zambia face multiple vulnerabilities such as household poverty, violence, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS and child marriage, among others.

Ms. Mwamba said Government has in the recent years made progress in strengthening National Child and Family Welfare systems which seek to address such vulnerabilities, citing the enactment of the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022 as one of the landmark efforts made.

The Minister indicated that the two documents launched will therefore bring standardization and a common understanding in delivery of services among key players across the child and family welfare sectors.

“A strong case management system is required to ensure an effective delivery of service to children. Zambia’s case management promotes the best interest of the child as a primary consideration when making Decisions affecting a child’s” Ms. Mwamba said.

She also thanked USAID through the ACHIEVE Project, UNICEF, the Swedish and Irish Embassies, and other partners for their support in putting in place standardized Case Management Systems and tools for enhanced service provision.

And ACHIEVE Global Project Director Jen Mulik commended Government for the progress made in improving the welfare of vulnerable children and adolescents in the country through various policies.

Ms. Mulik pledged that her organization will continue to work with Government through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services to ensure that the Case Management guidelines are well utilized.

Meanwhile, UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Penelope Campbell applauded Government for prioritising social welfare services and children.