Government To Strengthen Penalties Against Child Sexual Abuse.
Vice President Mutale Nalumango has announced plans by the government to revise laws and impose stricter penalties for child sexual abuse.
Speaking during a public address, Nalumango expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in child sexual abuse cases, describing the trend as both inhumane and contrary to Zambian values.
Nalumango emphasized that the government will also target women who conceal cases of molestation and abuse within their households, stating that such actions make them complicit in these crimes. She warned that penalties would be extended to these individuals, as their silence enables the continuation of abuse.
"The government is well aware that some women conceal these heinous acts to protect their so-called marriages. This behavior is unacceptable and will no longer be tolerated," she said.
Citing a personal experience from her time as a teacher, Nalumango recounted a case where a young girl was being abused by her uncle while her mother and other family members turned a blind eye. "I was warned to stay away by the wife of the abuser, yet I could not stand by and let that child suffer. Women who enable or ignore such crimes must also be held accountable. They are equally guilty," she lamented.
The Vice President called on Zambians to take collective action against child sexual abuse, urging the public to address not only the crime but its root causes. "We must rise together against this injustice to protect our children and families. Silence and complicity only serve to perpetuate the suffering of the victims," she stated.
Nalumango assured citizens that the Ministry of Justice is already in discussions to review the relevant legislation and enforce stricter penalties for offenders. She urged the public to report cases of abuse and support victims in their pursuit of justice.
The government’s stance comes amidst increasing public outcry over the prevalence of child sexual abuse and calls for more robust measures to protect vulnerable children across the nation.
March 23, 2025