By BUUMBA CHIMBULU
GOVERNMENT has assured of its support to organisations that are working to address the welfare of vulnerable children across the country.
It is imperative that vulnerable children receive special care not only from Government, but from other stakeholders, in order to accord them a dignified life, for them to reach their full potential.
This is according to Community Development and Social Services Minister, Doreen Mwamba, when she visited Little Assisi School and Day Care for Vulnerable Children and With Disabilities, and the Esther Cherish Home for the Needy Zambia recently.
“Government recognises that many children in the country, face multiple vulnerabilities ranging from household poverty, violence, lack of education, malnutrition, HIV, early pregnancies and child marriages, among many others, which requires collective responsibility to overcome,” Ms Mwamba said.
She therefore called on all stakeholders not to stigmatise against such children, but encouraged for strong family values and support towards promotion of their rights and freedoms.
Ms Mwamba further observed that her visit to the two organisations, and other planned visitations to many more children care centres, was opportune when Government was just beginning to roll out the recently enacted Children’s Code Act No 12 of 2022, which provides for institutional care as a measure for last resort.
Speaking separately after visiting the two organisations, the Minister appreciated the efforts the two institutions had put in to support children from various vulnerable backgrounds.
Meanwhile, Little Assisi Special School for Children with Disabilities, board Chairperson, Jobs Sichela, commended Government through the Ministry, for supporting them in their quest to provide care for children.
Mr Sichela said it was important for various stakeholders to come on board and also support Government’s efforts of uplifting the welfare of vulnerable and children with disabilities.
And Esther Cherish Home For the Needy Public Relations Officer, Zelipa Phiri, thanked Government for the support rendered to them.
She appreciated the various interventions that have been put in place such as the enactment of the Children’s Code Act, aimed at promoting and enhancing children’s welfare.
