CCZ DEMANDS JUSTICE: ZERO TOLERANCE FOR CHILD DEFILEMENT IN ZAMBIA

“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: