New report urges Zambia to do more in recognizing children’s rights

A new shadow report on the combined second, third and fourth periodic State party report on the convention of the rights of a child in Zambia has reveled that Zambia still has to do more in recognizing the rights of a child regardless of their status in society.

According to the report submitted by the National Child Rights Forum Coalition, some key issues that require urgent attention include general measures of implementation, civil rights and freedoms, basic health and welfare, education, leisure and special protection measures.

In this regard a coalition of about nineteen non governmental organizations working to promote the rights of a child in Zambia that contributed to the report findings have recommended that government should enact the children’s code bill after bringing the provisions in line with what is provided for in the final draft constitution.

The coalition has also noted the need for the country to have the access to information bill in place to allow for the full enjoyment of article 17 and other related articles that support the rights of a child.

And speaking on behalf of the National Child Rights Forum Coalition, Zambia Civic Education Coalition Executive Director Judith Mulenga says her organization will continue to work hard together with other stakeholders and ensure children’s rights are protected.

Ms. Mulenga adds that government should make an effort to address the issues being raised by stakeholders concerning the rights of a child.