The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services has launched a new initiative aimed at tackling the growing issue of children living and working on the streets.
The “Street Outreach Guidelines,” unveiled during an official ceremony, are designed to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable children and ensure their protection from the harsh realities of street life.
Minister Doreen Mwamba, who spoke at the launch, described the situation as deeply troubling, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to address it urgently.
She highlighted the severe risks faced by children on the streets, including exposure to health dangers, criminal activities, substance abuse, prostitution, and early pregnancies.
According to Ms. Mwamba, the guidelines mark a significant step in the Government’s efforts to mitigate these risks and provide better opportunities for the affected children.
“As a Government, our deepest desire is to see to it that every child grows up in a home and has a family to belong to,” said Ms. Mwamba, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to family-based child welfare solutions.
In a show of support, Inspector General of Police Mr. Graphel Musamba, represented by Zambia Police Community Service Director Joseph Shanampota, emphasized that the launch of the guidelines serves as a “call to action.”
He stated that the new framework would strengthen coordination among different stakeholders, streamline efforts, and ensure that children in street situations receive the care and protection they need.
He added that the police will continue to enforce laws aimed at protecting children and collaborate with various partners to promote child well-being.
The launch was also praised by UNICEF Representative Henri Heikura, who commended the Zambian Government for its ongoing efforts to create a protective environment for all children, including those in street situations.
Mr. Heikura reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to support the Government in its child protection efforts, particularly in filling critical gaps in data collection to better understand the demographics and circumstances of children living on the streets.
“We would like to renew our commitment to technically support the Government in filling the gap in data to better understand the numbers, demographics, and circumstances of children living on the street in Zambia,” Mr. Heikura said.
He also highlighted UNICEF’s readiness to assist in raising awareness and providing training on children’s rights for law enforcement, educators, healthcare workers, and the general public.
The launch of the Street Outreach Guidelines is seen as a critical milestone in Zambia’s efforts to improve the lives of children who find themselves in vulnerable situations on the streets.
The initiative aims to provide a clear and coordinated response to ensure that these children are not only protected but also given the opportunity to thrive within a supportive and family-oriented environment.
