Government says it is committed to working with all stakeholders in promoting and protecting the welfare of children in the country.

Speaking during the Ministerial Panel discussion dubbed “From global perspectives to National Implementation” at the on-going Child Helpline Conference in Livingstone, Minister of Community Development and Social Service, Ms. Doreen Mwamba said government has made various strides in enhancing children’s welfare.

She cited the formulation of the Children Code Act no. 12 of 2022, amendment of the Marriage Act which now clearly sets the legal marriage age in Zambia at 18 and formation of a multi sectoral child committee as some of the notable strides made by government in safeguarding of children’s rights.

With children accounting for 53% of Zambia’s population, the Minister underscored the significance of these reforms.

She added that her Ministry is working closely with other sectors—including Education, Health, Home Affairs, and Justice—through the newly established Child Equity Committee.

Ms. Mwamba stressed that violence against children goes beyond physical abuse and takes many forms hence the need to enhance Child heplines in order for the children to access help easily.

She stated that helplines play a vital role in raising awareness and providing children with a trusted platform to report violations.

The Minister acknowledged that while there is no specific budget line for child helpline services, the government is actively working with partners committed to advancing children’s welfare.

Ms. Mwamba highlighted ongoing collaboration with Child Helpline Zambia to implement policies and strategies that promote child inclusivity and safeguard children’s rights.

She praised Child Helpline Zambia as a key partner in the country’s efforts to protect children, describing the organization as a “silent giant” in the fight against child abuse and exploitation.

She called for toll-free access to child helplines and revealed that her Ministry is partnering with the Ministry of Science and Technology to expand and sustain these essential services.

She assured that government will not compromise on matters affecting the children, but will endeavour to collectively work with all stakeholders in ensuring that children’s welfare is protected.

The Conference is being held under the theme, “Children at the Center: A Global Voice for Mental Health, Violence Prevention and Response, Envisioning Child Helplines for 2030 and Beyond.”