A CALL TO END CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE - THIS CAN NOT GO ON; WE NEED TO ACT NOW!

The escalating cases of defilement and sexual abuse against children in Zambia demand immediate, decisive action. Every delay risks the further devastation of innocent lives, permanently affecting their physical and psychological well-being. It is unacceptable and so disheartening to see how the lives of innocent souls are being destroyed by the same people that are supposed to provide protection and safety to them. Child sexual abuse has continued increasing as evidenced by the horrific defilement and murder of a schoolgirl in Kamwala South, the disturbing case of a young cancer patient who was defiled by her own father, and the recent case of a boy who was molested. Action from the government and all stakeholders involved is urgently needed.

These incidences of sexual abuse (defilement, rape, incest, sodomy) clearly shows that the wellbeing of children in Zambia is at high risk, which has continued compromising their health; - physical and psychological wellbeing with some survivors suffering permanent damage. This may continue impacting more children if stringent measures are not put in place to address the scourge. Hence the need to ACT NOW!

As Caritas Zambia, a faith-based organisation, guided by the Catholic Social Teachings we affirm that every child is a SACRED GIFT FROM GOD, deserving of love, utmost protection, and dignity. Our faith reminds us through Scripture: "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14). The Church teaches us to protect the vulnerable, champion justice, and uphold human dignity, principles echoed strongly in our plea for urgent action against child abuse. we stand firmly against any form of child defilement, exploitation, or abuse, recognizing that such acts are profound violations of human rights and dignity of children. We acknowledge the moral and spiritual obligation to safeguard the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, who are often unable to protect or defend themselves.

Therefore, we urgently call upon the government to immediately establish Fast-Track Courts dedicated specifically to swiftly dealing with cases of child sexual abuse. These courts must operate without delay, providing justice and serving as a powerful deterrent against future abuses. Additionally, the enforcement of stringent penalties, including life imprisonment with hard labour for perpetrators, without the option of bail or bond, must become an immediate reality. Parents and caregivers who conceal such atrocities must also face severe consequences. we also Call Civil Society Organisations and government to Strengthen Awareness Campaigns: The government must take the lead and this must be done using various platforms; the media , online and social media, more public meetings - through the church, schools, health centres/ hospitals among others, to create more awareness about the impacts of child sexual abuse on boys and girls. In addition, there is need to strengthen the mental and wellbeing of survivors through offering Support and Healing: We urge government to establish more safe spaces for survivors of child sexual abuse/exploitation and provide them with; counselling, alternative care support systems and healing for them to reclaim their lives.

The time for contemplation has passed. Action is needed NOW! We must collectively work to create an environment that ensures every child's right to grow and thrive safely, protected by the full force of our laws and moral duty. We invite you ALL to play a role in ending defilement against children. We would like to remind the nation at large about the teachings of Jesus Christ which calls and reminds us to be shepherds of the innocent, to nurture and care for children with compassion and vigilance. Let us not forsake our moral obligation to protect God's beloved children.

Issued by:

Rev. Fr. Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga

Caritas Zambia Director

Download the entire signed Escalating Cases Of Child Sexual Abuse - Caritas Zambia Statement here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/general/Caritas-Zambia-Statement-On-Defilement.pdf

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE THREE CHURCH MOTHER BODIES

19th March, 2025

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brethren to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133: 1)

PREAMBLE

We, the leaders of the Church Mother bodies namely the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Download the entire Three Church Mother Bodies Speak out On Political Landscape - March 2025 here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/general/three-church-mother-bodies-speakout-on-political-landscape.pdf

PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2025 YOUTH DAY COMMEMORATION UNDER THE THEME: "VOICES AMPLIFIED AND INNOVATIONS IGNITED".

Today, on Youth Day 2025, we unequivocally demand greater recognition, inclusion, and empowerment for young people across Zambia. The future of our nation depends on harnessing the boundless creativity, passion, and innovative ideas of our youth. Their voices must no longer remain on the sidelines but must lead conversations and influence decisions that shape their lives and communities.

Download the entire CARITAS Zambia 2025 Youth Day Commemoration Statement Under The Theme "Voices Amplified And Innovations Ignited" here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/general/caritas-zambia-youth-day-commemoration-statement-2025.pdf

ABSTRACT

This report examines how mining revenues have flowed from mining companies to local governments in meeting community developmental priorities. Issues include governance inefficiencies, limited citizen participation, and the increasing disparities in mining revenue knowledge by the communities. Non-compliance by some mining companies exacerbates social and economic inequalities, leaving communities in persistent poverty. The study advocates holistic solutions, emphasizing the importance of compliance, governance, transparency, and community involvement. Conclusions stress transparency, collaboration, and community engagement as core principles. Recommendations aim to foster an inclusive and accountable mining sector, achieving fairer distribution of benefits and reducing negative impacts for sustainable community well-being.

Download the entire Caritas Tracking How Mining Resources Have Flowed To Local Councils To Meet Local Development Priorities - Technical Study here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/key_papers/Caritas-Tracking-How-Mining-Resources-Have-Flowed-Technical-Study.pdf

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The issue of mining revenues not benefiting host communities is a critical concern. Many of these communities are facing high levels of poverty, currently at 60%, and inadequate developmental progress, despite significant financial contributions to government entities through levies and payments.

Download the entire Caritas Tracking How Mining Resources Have Flowed To Local Councils To Meet Local Development Priorities - Summary Report here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/key_papers/Caritas-Tracking-How-Mining-Resources-Have-Flowed-Summary-Report.pdf

Making Mining Money Work (3MW): Follow the Money Posters

Making Mining Money Work (3MW) - Follow the Money is a campaign by Carias Zambia aimed at ensuring that revenues from mining activities benefit local communities. The initiative emphasizes the importance of using these funds for sustainable development, guided by the Rating Act of 2018, which enhances revenue collection for community projects.

Through engaging comics and poster illustrations, the campaign educates local authorities and communities about responsible governance and participatory decision-making regarding mining revenues. By fostering transparency and accountability, Caritas Zambia seeks to build trust and tailor development initiatives to the specific needs of the community, ultimately empowering them to follow the money for a brighter and more resilient future.

Download the entire Caritas Zambia Making Mining Money Work (3MW) Follow the Money 060325 - Posters here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/posters_brochures_banners/Caritas-Zambia-Making-Mining-Money-Work-3MW-Follow-the-Money-060325-Posters.pdf

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Making Mining Money Work (3MW): Follow the Money, a booklet by Caritas Zambia. This comic, simplifies concepts on mine revenue distribution, ensuring communities benefit from the wealth generated by mining activities.

Mining has long been a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy. However, the true potential of these resources can only be realised when the revenues foster development within the local communities that host these mining operations. The Rating Act of 2018 provides a framework for local councils to collect mining revenue and channel it into community development projects. This booklet illustrates the critical aspects of this legislation and how it can create a brighter future for all.

Our comic highlights the essential role of transparent and accountable allocation of mining funds.

Themes include thriving communities, transparent fund allocation, community transformation, capacity building, effective revenue collection, community engagement, and collaborative development. We hope to inspire and educate communities on making mining money work for their benefit, building a future where mineral revenues drive meaningful and sustainable development for all.

Enjoy the journey of 3MW and let’s follow the money!

Download the entire Caritas Zambia Making Mining Money Work (3MW) Follow the Money 060325 - Comics here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/posters_brochures_banners/Caritas-Zambia-Making-Mining-Money-Work-3MW-Follow-the-Money-060325-Comics.pdf

CARITAS Zambia PRESS STATEMENT For Immediate Release

Date: 24th October 2024.

ZAMBIA@60: HONORING OUR HERITAGE, EMBRACING OUR FUTURE THROUGH INTEGRAL HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Today, as Zambia celebrates 60 years of independence under the theme “60 Years Strong: Honoring Our Heritage, Embracing Our Future,” Caritas Zambia proudly joins the nation in reflecting on six decades of resilience, unity, and progress. This milestone not only marks our freedom from colonial rule but also serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all Zambians.

At Caritas Zambia, we are deeply committed to advancing integral human development—an approach that recognizes the importance of fostering human dignity, improving livelihoods, and promoting the holistic well-being of individuals and communities. In line with the Independence Day theme, we see this moment as an opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to both honoring our heritage and embracing our future.

Honoring Our Heritage

Our heritage is rich with values that have sustained Zambia’s people for generations: community, compassion, and stewardship of our natural resources. These are the very principles that guide our work in supporting rural communities, promoting agroecological practices, and preserving the cultural and social foundations of our nation.

We pay tribute to the wisdom of our ancestors and their commitment to working together for the common good. Their example reminds us that progress must be measured not just by economic growth but by how we care for one another, ensure equitable opportunities, and respect the environment we all depend on.

Our programmes are designed to empower communities through participatory development, recognizing that the solutions to today’s challenges lie in the resilience and knowledge of our people.

Embracing Our Future

As we look ahead, we must remain committed to shaping a future where every Zambian has the opportunity to thrive. Embracing our future means embracing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. At Caritas Zambia, we believe that development must be inclusive, ensuring that no one is left behind—whether it is through promoting gender equality, enhancing access to education, or supporting youth empowerment.

Our vision for Zambia’s future is one of sustainable development, where economic advancement goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. By empowering communities with the skills and resources to adapt to climate change and engage in sustainable agricultural practices, we are contributingto to a Zambia where future generations can live in harmony with the land.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate Zambia’s 60th Independence Day, we urge all citizens, civil society organizations, government leaders, and the private sector to reflect on how we can work together to build a Zambia that reflects our shared aspirations. We invite everyone to join us in creating a future rooted in justice, peace, and dignity for all. Let us honor our rich heritage by safeguarding it for future generations. Let us embrace our future by investing in people and ensuring that the progress we make today benefits every Zambian tomorrow.

Happy 60th Independence Day, Zambia!!

Caritas Executive Director

Fr. Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga

Download the entire signed copy of the Zambia@60: Honoring Our Heritage, Embracing Our Future Through Integral Human Development Press Statement here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/general/Zambia-60-Honoring-Our-Heritage-Embracing-Our-Future-Through-Integral-Human-Development.pdf

CARITAS ZAMBIA’S SUBMISSION TO THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES ON BUDGET ANALYSIS HEAD 86 MINISTRY OF FISHERIES AND LIVESOCK AND HEAD 89 MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

1. Introduction

We would like to recommend the Zambian Government for their tireless effort in ensuring that it provides needed resources to bring about development in the country and improve the welfare of the people of Zambia. The 2025 budget has notably seen an increase in so many sectors and most importantly to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock including Ministry of Agriculture.

Caritas Zambia in this submission will analyse the Financing of the 2025 budget and allocation of funds per Head and its programmes and the implications of such allocation.

Download the entire CARITAS Zambia’s Submission To The Parliamentary Committee On Agriculture, Lands And Natural Resources here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/key_papers/CARITAS-Submission-to-Parliamentary-Committee-Agriculture-Lands-Natural-Resources.pdf

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Predicated on the national, regional, and international frameworks on disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation and the attendant enabling legal provisions for disaster management and mitigation, this report is based on the study conducted in the Dioceses across the ten (10) provinces to formulate an emergency Preparedness, Response and mitigation Plan, which is a critical tool aimed at guiding the Dioceses in preserving lives, protecting properties and the environment in an emergency.

Recognising the complex intersectionality of societies for which the plan is designed to serve, the study extended its catchment to include children so that the plan will be sensitive and responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable marginalized section of the population especially children, women, and people living with disability. It has been recognised that children and women are the most affected by disasters when they happen. Thus, the plan is envisaged to be a purview for actioning disaster preparedness and response measures for Dioceses in their jurisdictions for levelling up efforts to contribute to reduced vulnerabilities, while enhancing coping capacities and building resilience of exposed and susceptible communities to climatic and disaster risks.

Therefore, this Plan delivers a two-prong disaster management and mitigation strategy to amplify the adverse impacts of disaster and climatic shocks on children and vulnerable groups and provide recommendations on how they can be protected and recover from disaster and climatic shocks and how Dioceses and communities' capacities can be up-scaled in handling complexities and differential impact on communities arising from increased disaster occurrences.

Download the entire Caritas Zambia's Emergency Preparedness, Response and Mitigation (EPRM) Plan here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/key_papers/Caritas-Zambia-Emergency-Preparedness-Response-and-Mitigation-EPRM-Plan.pdf