“But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him
if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” —
Matthew 18:6.
The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) is deeply appalled and outraged by the
rising cases of child defilement in our country, particularly the recent heart–
wrenching case of a father who has been sexually abusing his biological
daughter—a young and innocent child already battling cancer. This heinous and
inhumane act is a grave violation of children’s rights, dignity, and well-being. It is
an affront to the moral and ethical fabric of our nation.
As a society, we cannot afford to remain silent in the face of such evil. Every child
deserves to grow up in a safe, loving, and nurturing environment, free from all
forms of violence and exploitation. It is unacceptable that such cases continue to
rise, often perpetrated by individuals who should be the very protectors of these
vulnerable children.
Call for Stiffer Punishment and Government Action
The CCZ strongly urges the Government of the Republic of Zambia—particularly
the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary—to ensure that perpetrators of child
defilement face the harshest punishment possible under the law. The existing legal
framework must be strengthened to deter would-be offenders and ensure swift,
severe, and uncompromising justice for victims. We urge the government to
consider stiffer penalties, including life sentences without parole, to reflect the
gravity of this atrocious crime. Furthermore, we call on law enforcement agencies to expedite investigations and
ensure that justice is not only served but also seen to be served. Too often, these
crimes go unpunished due to weak enforcement, delayed prosecution, or lack of
resources. This must change if we are to truly protect our children.
Child Protection and Community Safeguarding
While legal action is crucial, it is not enough. The Ministry of Community
Development and Social Services must go beyond issuing statements and take
concrete, proactive steps to establish child protection spaces in every community.
These spaces should:
• Provide safe havens for children at risk
• Offer access to psychosocial support
• Create platforms for children and concerned citizens to report cases of
abuse without fear of victimization
Additionally, CCZ urges the government to enforce strong safeguarding policies
in all institutions that handle children including schools, churches, orphanages,
and community centres to prevent and respond to abuse cases effectively.
A Call to Parents and Guardians
We strongly urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in
protecting their children at all times. Parents must foster open communication
with their children, educate them on personal safety, and ensure that they are not
left in vulnerable situations.
A Call to the Church and Society
As faith-based institutions, we have a moral and spiritual duty to stand against all
forms of violence, particularly those targeting the most vulnerable. The CCZ calls
upon all churches and religious leaders to:
• Actively engage in child protection advocacy
• Educate communities on the dangers of child abuse
• Establish safe reporting mechanisms for affected children
• Implement and enforce strict child protection systems and policies furthermore, we urge churches to refrain from misapplying Biblical texts to shield
abusers from accountability. The Church must be a sanctuary of justice, not a place
where evil is concealed.
We also call upon the broader community to remain vigilant in protecting children.
It is our collective responsibility to create safe homes, schools, and neighbourhoods
where children can thrive without fear.
Conclusion
The Council of Churches in Zambia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to
justice, child protection, and the promotion of a society where no child suffers
abuse in silence. We will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to demand
accountability, strengthen child protection mechanisms and ensure justice for all
victims.
We say NO to child defilement.
We say NO to the silence that allows it to continue.
We say YES to justice, child protection, and a society that truly values and
safeguards its children.
Issued on behalf of the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) by: