Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative (REPSSI) Programmes Manager, Henry Mwanza, has called on the media to exercise caution and integrity when reporting on child rights violations, emphasizing the need to safeguard the mental and psychosocial well-being of child victims.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka, Mr. Mwanza stressed that media outlets must prioritize the privacy of child abuse victims to help them cope with the trauma associated with such experiences.
He noted that cases of sexual abuse, in particular, have profound and lasting effects on children’s mental health.
Mr. Mwanza highlighted the media’s crucial role in preventing further emotional distress and societal stigma when reporting on sensitive issues such as defilement and other forms of child rights violations.
“The media must be vigilant in protecting victims’ identities and ensuring their privacy is upheld to prevent discrimination and stigmatization within the community,” said Mr. Mwanza.
He further urged journalists and media professionals to adopt a holistic approach to reporting, which includes advocating for psychosocial support and care to aid in the recovery of child victims.
By Betty Kakoma
