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Government has called for equal protection and empowerment of both boys and girls as Zambia joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.
Speaking during the national commemoration held at Godfrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium in Kabwe, Central Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Godfrey Chitambala said gender equality must extend to all children if Zambia was to achieve meaningful development.
Chitambala urged society to safeguard the welfare of both girls and boys, noting that boys too faced serious challenges such as exploitation, neglect, and abuse.
“While today we celebrate the achievements and potential of girls as innovators, peacebuilders, and human rights defenders, we must also acknowledge that boys experience vulnerabilities that require equal attention and protection,” he said.
The commemorations, held under the global theme “The Girl I Am: The Change I Lead,” drew government officials, civil society organisations, and community members to reflect on progress in advancing girls’ rights and to reaffirm commitments to gender equality.
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Chitambala reaffirmed government’s dedication to child protection through various policy and legal measures.
He cited Zambia’s ratification of international conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, as well as the Children’s Code Act of 2022.
He also highlighted the free education policy as a major step in ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial challenges.
“Government has strengthened child protection mechanisms by establishing specialised police units, increasing Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations for child-focused programmes, and creating platforms that amplify children’s voices in governance,” Chitambala said.
He called on all stakeholders to work together to create a safe, nurturing environment where every child—regardless of gender—could grow, learn, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Speaking on behalf of the girls, Beatrice Chululuka thanked government for its continued support in advancing girls’ empowerment. She urged her peers to value their voices, embrace their identities, and live with confidence.
“Let us recognise our strength and work together with our brothers to break barriers and create opportunities for every child to pursue their dreams,” she said.
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