The Advocacy for Child Justice (ACJ) has called on government to strengthen the enforcement of laws protecting children’s rights, ensuring that perpetrators of child abuse face severe consequences, including hard labor.
ACJ Executive Director, Josphat Njovu, emphasized that while Zambia has adequate legal provisions to safeguard children and prevent abuse, challenges often arise when such cases reach the courts, particularly in securing evidence for crimes like child defilement and sexual offenses.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News, Mr. Njovu stressed the need for a collective effort to ensure children’s safety, especially when the perpetrators are family members.
He urged communities to take a more active role in reporting abuse, emphasizing the importance of protecting children particularly girls from harm.
He further highlighted the need for increased sensitization and awareness at the household level, in schools, and among law enforcement agencies to ensure effective implementation of safeguarding measures.
By Betty Kakoma
