Overview
This national strategy, led by the Ministry of Gender, provides Zambia’s multi-sector framework to prevent and respond to child marriage. It articulates a vision of a Zambia free from child marriage by 2030 and a goal to achieve a 40% reduction in child marriage by 2021. The plan aligns with national policies and international commitments, and establishes a consortium of ministries and a national coordination unit to drive implementation. The document analyzes political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors; reviews national, regional, and global trends; and outlines a SWOT analysis. It addresses dual statutory/customary legal challenges, teenage pregnancy, education access, and poverty as key drivers. Strategic objectives cover: strengthening multi-sector coordination and M&E; harmonizing laws and policies; behaviour and attitude change; expanding child-sensitive services (education, social protection, SRH and youth-friendly services); and resource mobilization. A detailed logframe sets targets, indicators, and roles, with provisions for baseline, midterm review, and final evaluation.