A delegation, including the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Violence Against Children, Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, the UN Resident Coordinator and UNICEF representatives, had the privilege of meeting with President Hakainde Hichilema this morning.

The discussions centered on collective efforts to end violence against children, emphasizing key issues like child marriage, child labour, detention, safeguarding, and protection of migrant children.

It is therefore imperative to prioritize investment in child protection and wellbeing underscores their role as essential human capital for the socio-economic development of the country. Children need dedicated resources and support, championed by the Government and its partners in the fight against violence.

President Hichilema who is the continental champion on Ending Child Marriage and head of state of a Pathfinding country, reaffirmed his resolute commitment to ending all forms of violence against children, with strong backing from the Secretary-General to overcome fiscal constraints and bolster capacities for social protection and child welfare.