Acting Solwezi District Commissioner, Anthony Fulwe, says government will continue prioritising children’s safety, well-being, education and development in all its policies and programmes. Mr Fulwe says this is because protection of children is of national importance and a…

Acting Solwezi District Commissioner, Anthony Fulwe, says government will continue prioritising children’s safety, well-being, education and development in all its policies and programmes.

Mr Fulwe says this is because protection of children is of national importance and a responsibility that must be reflected in all actions that government takes at all levels.

He adds that the government will ensure that it works with other stakeholders in providing an environment in which every child is protected from abuse, exploitation, neglect and all forms of physical or digital violence.

“We must create an environment in which children feel confident to speak out without fear of being blamed, ridiculed, punished or further victimised, “Mr Fulwe stresses.

Mr Fulwe was speaking in Solwezi yesterday during the celebration of Child Justice Week under the theme: “Protecting children in digital spaces: confronting online exploitation, harmful exposure and strengthening child justice responses”.

He called for strengthened child friendly reporting mechanisms that will ensure that children who are abused have access to appropriate psychosocial support, healthcare, legal assistance and other necessary services.

The Acting District Commissioner said the justice system must be responsive to the needs and vulnerabilities of children by ensuring that children are treated in a manner that respects their dignity and rights either as victims, witnesses or have come into conflict with the law.

Mr Fulwe said there is a need to promote justice responses that are child sensitive, timely and appropriate and ensure children are protected, offenders are held accountable and prevent further harm.

“We must never lose sight of the fact that the best interests of the child should guide decisions affecting children in accordance with applicable law,” Mr Fulwe said.

He urged traditional, faith and community leaders to use their influence in promoting positive attitudes towards child protection and to challenge harmful practices that expose children to abuse, exploitation or neglect.

Speaking at the same event, District Child Justice Forum Chairperson, Namate Simakumba, called on all stakeholders to work together in ensuring children are protected from online abuse and exploitation.

Ms Simakumba, who is also Solwezi Resident Magistrate, said protecting children is not the responsibility of one institution or individual but that it is a collective obligation that requires commitment from government, law enforcement agencies, the justice system, parents, teachers, traditional leaders and the wider community.

“While digital technology presents numerous benefits, it also exposes children to serious risks that require our urgent and sustained attention,” she said.