Overview
The Child Safeguarding Policy (2023), developed by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS), provides Zambia with a robust framework for protecting children from abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation. It builds on the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, the National Child Safeguarding Framework, and international commitments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
The policy underscores that child safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility – from government staff and contractors to NGOs, volunteers, communities, and families.
Purpose & Vision
The policy seeks to:
- Ensure that all children enjoy their rights and freedoms, free from abuse and exploitation.
- Establish a culture of safety, trust, and respect for children across all programmes and institutions.
- Guide staff and partners in aligning operations with the best interests of the child.
MCDSS Vision: “An innovative model of excellence for basic social protection services.”
Guiding Principles
The policy is anchored on the following key principles:
- Do No Harm – no child should be exposed to risk or harm.
- Zero Tolerance to Abuse – strict accountability for violence, neglect, or exploitation.
- Non-Discrimination & Respect – protecting all children regardless of background or status.
- Best Interests of the Child – all decisions prioritize child welfare.
- Confidentiality – safeguarding information and protecting children’s privacy.
- Child Participation – involving children in decisions affecting them.
- Partnerships – fostering collaboration with communities, NGOs, and government stakeholders.
Legal & Policy Framework
The Child Safeguarding Policy is aligned with:
- Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022 – Zambia’s consolidated legal framework on child rights and protection.
- National Child Policy (2015) – strategic framework for child-related initiatives.
- International Standards – UNCRC, ACRWC, UN guidelines on elimination of sexual abuse and exploitation.
- Other Supporting Laws – Anti-Gender Based Violence Act (2011), Sexual Offences Act (Cap 87), Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (2008).
Scope & Application
The policy applies to:
- All MCDSS staff – at national, provincial, district, and community levels.
- Associates – including contractors, consultants, NGOs, partners, volunteers, and visitors.
- Stakeholders – communities and institutions working with or in contact with children.
Failure to comply attracts corrective and disciplinary measures.
Key Safeguarding Measures
1. Prevention
- Risk Assessments – identify and mitigate risks in all programmes.
- Safe Recruitment – strict vetting, police clearance, and child-safety clauses in contracts.
- Code of Conduct – binding standards of acceptable behaviour for staff and associates.
- Training & Induction – mandatory safeguarding training for all staff and volunteers.
2. Programme & Communication Standards
- Safe Programme Design – child-friendly, protective, and risk-aware.
- Communication & Media – respectful portrayal of children, informed consent for images, anonymity for sensitive cases, and restrictions on staff social media use.
3. Reporting & Response
- Mandatory Reporting – all child abuse or exploitation cases must be reported within 24 hours to MCDSS focal points or police.
- Three Rs Principle – Recognize, Report, Respond.
- Whistle-blower Protection – staff raising genuine concerns are protected.
- Child-Friendly Reporting Channels – accessible mechanisms for children to disclose abuse.
4. Monitoring & Review
- Regular risk registers, audits, and performance reviews.
- Bi-annual reports on safeguarding implementation.
- Full policy review at least every three years, with stakeholder input.
Expected Outcomes
By implementing this policy, Zambia aims to:
- Create safe environments where children can survive, thrive, and reach their full potential.
- Strengthen institutional accountability and transparency in child-related services.
- Build public trust through effective prevention, reporting, and response mechanisms.
- Foster a child-safeguarding culture across government, communities, and partners
