The Youth Life Project has urged government to strengthen the regulation and monitoring of orphanages and other childcare institutions to prevent cases of child abuse and molestation.
This call comes after the closure of an orphanage in Chudleigh following reports that children, including young girls, were being sexually abused by the clergyman running the facility.
Speaking to RCV News in Lusaka, Youth Life Project President, Michael Nkhosi, expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that it highlights serious lapses in the government’s oversight of children’s shelters.
“This unfortunate case underscores the urgent need to ensure that all individuals operating childcare facilities are properly vetted and have the right intentions,” said Mr. Nkhosi.
He further urged authorities to prioritize the welfare of the affected children by relocating them to safer environments and equipping young adults with economic skills to help them achieve financial independence beyond the shelter system.
However, Mr. Nkhosi also raised concerns over the high cost of registering care homes, stressing the need for a balanced approach, one that enhances security while remaining financially accessible to well-meaning individuals who wish to establish non-profit childcare facilities.
By Cynthia Lupiya.
