Government says it is confident that the recently enacted Child Code Act of 2022 is a game changer in protection of children against abuse.
Officiating at the National Children Symposium for world children’s day under the theme better future for every child in Lusaka, Director in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Thomas Phiri said the symposium has come at an opportune time when government is stepping up efforts to ensure a conducive and a safe environment for children to enjoy their rights through policy and legal actions.
Mr. Phiri said the symposium has been convened to accord children across the country an opportunity to reflect on issues challenging their quest to realize their rights and bring them to the attention of government and other leaders.
“These actions by government illustrate our commitment to our children and our resolve to ensure that children’s rights are respected and grow up in a safe environment”, he said.
Meanwhile speaking at the same event Joining Forces Alliance Chairperson Simba Machingaidze has commended government’s commitment in ensuring that children are safe.
Mr. Machingaidze said this is evidenced by the recent enactment of the Child Code Act of 2022 which has banned corporal punishment in all settings.
Mr. Machingaidze added that the code also explicitly prohibited child marriage and calls for commitment from all stakeholders in ensuring that children’s rights to protection against sexual harassment are upheld.
“This shows the importance attached to children’s wellbeing in this country. We are here to support you and will continue ensuring that every child regardless of where they live are given an opportunity to thrive and grow to their full potential”, he said.
The Joining Forces is an alliance of the six largest international child rights organizations whose members are Childfund International, Plan International, Save the Children International, World Vision International and Terre Des Hommes.
And representing the children Faustina kapumpe said such platforms are good for children because they serve as opportunities for them to air their views on issues that affect their wellbeing.
Ms. Kapumpe appealed to her fellow children to actively participate in the symposium that will run from the 23rd to the 24th of November 2022.
