LEAVE NO CHILD BEHIND: ZAMBIA’S COLLECTIVE FIGHT AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING
AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING
TALITHA KUM ZAMBIA (TAKUZA) HAS REAFFIRMED ITS COMMITMENT TO CONTINUE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE FIGHT AGAINST THE TRAFFICKING OF HUMANS
Founded in 2021, TAKUZA is a National Network comprising 45 Women Congregations and is a Ministry of the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods (ZAS). Its vision is a “society where everyone is free from all forms of exploitation, especially exploitation due to Human trafficking” and its mission is to end human trafficking. Religious Sisters of Charity spearhead operations of the Network. During the donation of essential items to the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services today 23rd August 2024, Elias Phiri, Head of Human Resources for the Zambia Association for Sisterhood (ZAS), spoke on behalf of TAKUZA’s board chairperson, Sr. Elizabeth Muleya.
Mr. Phiri emphasised TAKUZA’s mission to support those affected by human trafficking by providing tangible help. Mr. Phiri said TAKUZA identified the areas of need in its contribution towards the fight against human trafficking and decided to donate essential goods to support the survivors.
He further noted the importance of collaboration saying it is the key to making strides in attaining the goal towards stopping human trafficking.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, Angela Kawandami, acknowledged the ongoing challenges Zambia faces with human trafficking due to social and economic hardships. She stressed that the government cannot fight this battle alone and needs partners like TAKUZA and thanked them for the gesture.
Kawandami highlighted that the ministry currently operates six safe houses across five provinces, which are inadequate and difficult to maintain, making such donations vital. Meanwhile, the Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Department in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Boris Mulengu, pointed out that safe houses often struggle to meet required standards and that donations like TAKUZA’s are essential in improving these conditions.
The donated items, intended for use in safe homes, include toiletries, groceries, mealie meal, and kitchen supplies, aiming to enhance the support provided to victims of human trafficking and gender-based violence.
In Picture: from left to right Ms. Rosa Siamachoka-Programmes officer-TAKUZA, Br. Edgar Karugaba. Missionaries of Africa(MAFr), Sr. Patience Shinondo-Religious Sisters of Charity/TAKUZA-Programmes Manager and Fr. Philip Meraba-Missionaries of Africa | FENZA
TAKUZA team with Permanent Secretary and MCDSS Staff
REPORT ON PARTICIPATION IN THE LAUNCH OF THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
LAUNCH ON 25TH NOVEMBER 2024
MULUNGUSHI CONFERENCE CENTRE
INTRODUCTION
On November 25, 2024, Talitha Kum Zambia joined the global community in launching the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), an annual campaign that calls for urgent action to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls worldwide. The event, organized by the Gender Division, carried the theme, “Towards Beijing +30 UNiTE: To End Violence Against Women & Girls,” which reflects the global commitment to achieving gender equity as outlined in the Beijing Platform for Action.
The day began with a solidarity march from Manda Hill to the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, symbolizing unity in combating GBV and amplifying the voices of survivors and advocates. The event brought together diverse stakeholders, including government officials, non-governmental organizations, international partners and community leaders, to reflect on progress made and the path forward.
The Solidarity March
At 7:00 am, participants assembled at the designated starting points, energized and ready to take a stand against GBV. The march was officially flagged off at 09:00 am by the Permanent Secretary of the Gender Division, Mrs. Mainga D. Kabika. Marchers from various organizations including TAKUZA, demonstrated their solidarity by holding banners, plank cards and giving out brochures all to emphasise the importance of creating a safer society for women and girls.
The procession, which ended at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, was not only symbolic but also served to raise public awareness about the prevalence and severity of GBV in Zambia.
Arrival of Dignitaries and Stakeholders
By mid-morning, the venue was alive with activity as invited dignitaries and participants arrived. Key figures in attendance included the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Mrs. Nelly Mutti; the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Beatrice Mutali; and Lusaka Province Minister, Hon. Sheal Mulyata. Members of the Diplomatic Corps, political leaders, senior government officials, and other notable stakeholders were also present, reflecting the collective commitment to the cause.
The event was further graced by the arrival of His Excellency Dr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, who served as the Guest of Honour.
Cultural Performances and Entertainment
The official commemoration ceremony was a vibrant blend of speeches, cultural performances and dramatic acts. Entertainment pieces, including a poignant performance by the Nkwazi Drama Group, captivated the audience. The group’s play portrayed the devastating impact of GBV on families and communities, leaving attendees deeply moved.
The musical performances also reinforced the campaign’s theme while celebrating the resilience and strength of women and girls.
Key messages from the event
President Hakainde Hichilema in his keynote address, the President delivered a passionate plea for societal transformation. He highlighted the often-overlooked struggles that women endure daily and called for concerted efforts to alleviate these burdens. He remarked,
President Hakainde HichilemaA woman carries a heavy load—fetching water, caring for children, and managing her household, often under challenging conditions. We must respect them and recognise them as very important members of society. Violence against women is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue
Ms. Beauty Katebe, Chairperson of NGOCC
Ms. Katebe presented sobering statistics, noting that over 43,000 cases of GBV were reported in Zambia in 2023 alone. While the increased reporting signifies progress in awareness, the figures also reveal the magnitude of the problem. She stressed the need for a multi-sectoral approach, involving government, civil society and community leaders, to address the root causes of GBV and provide support for survivors.
Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr. Patrick Kangwa
Mr. Kangwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing policies aimed at eradicating GBV. He emphasized the importance of collaboration across all sectors, stating, “Violence against women and girls cannot be eliminated unless the entire Government joins hands in this fight.”
Representing the United Nations, Ms. Mutali reiterated the organization’s partnership with Zambia in advancing gender equality. She noted, “As we mark 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, the United Nations in Zambia stands ready to renew its commitment to protecting women and girls. Sustainable development cannot be achieved without their active involvement and protection.”
CONCLUSION
TAKUZA’s participation in the launch of the 16 Days of Activism demonstrated its commitment to the fight against GBV. he connection between GBV and human trafficking is undeniable, as both stem from systemic inequalities and exploit vulnerabilities, particularly among women and girls. Recognizing this, TAKUZA saw it fit to participate in the launch, aligning its efforts to raise awareness about human trafficking with the broader fight against GBV.
As Zambia commemorates 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, there is renewed hope and determination to achieve the vision of a gender-equal society, free from violence and discrimination.