Children rights to be enhanced

Minister of Gender and Child Development Inonge Wina says government is fully committed to the promotion of child rights in Zambia.

Ms Wina says government is currently working at measures to protect children through the drafting of the National Child policy as well as enacting the Child Labour law.

Ms Wina said this today in Chibombo district in Central province during the commemoration of the Day of the African Child.

She said this year’s theme of eliminating harmful, social and culture practices affecting children is a collective responsibility for every Zambian to fight vigorously.

Ms Wina also said that the Patriotic Front government will do everything possible to ensure that Zambian children grow into responsible citizens who will be able to contribute greatly to the development of the nation.

The Gender Minister also thanked cooperating partners for their financial support in fighting child abuses in the nation.

And speaking at the same commemoration, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Country Representative Lyorlumun Uhaa called on parents, traditional and religious leaders to join hands with government in fighting evil vices affecting young people in the country.

Dr Uhaa said the level of child abuse in the country is alarming and as such concerted efforts from all stakeholders are required to fight the vice.

He also lamented that there is urgent need to invest massively in fighting early marriages, sexual abuses as well as many challenges being faced by the girl child.

Dr Uhaa further reaffirmed his organisations total support to the government of the day in providing the necessary resources for the fight against child offences.

And Plan International Country Director, Ernest Mwenya said violent vices been perpetuated in society by irresponsible people makes sad reading.

Mr Mwenya said illicit vices against young people in Zambia currently stands at 42 per cent, a thing he said should be worrying to Zambia.