GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO IMPROVING CHILD JUSTICE SYSTEMS

Community Development and Social Services Minister Doreen Mwamba has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to improving child justice systems in Zambia.

Ms. Mwamba said various measures have been put in place to ensure smooth procedures for children who come in contact with the law.

The Minister said this when she accompanied the United Nations (UN) Special Representative to the Secretary General on Violence Against Children Dr. Najit Maalla to Katombora Refomatory Centre in Kazungula District of Southern Province.

“There was no court in the country for children, so as Government we quickly formed Child Family Friendly Court rooms and ensured that we have judges specifically for those courts to deal with children matters,” Ms. Mwamba said.

Meanwhile, Dr Maalla urged Government to consider formulating policies that would prevent child crime in the country.

“There is need to prevent child crime other that focusing on rehabilitation as this will be more beneficial to the well-being of the children,” Dr. Maalla said.

The UN Special Representative to the Secretary General on Violence Against Children was in the country to strengthen collaborations between the UN and Zambia on the welfare of children.