The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Health, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the well-being of children and young people during a High-Level Dialogue held under the theme, “The Triple Threat: HIV, Early and Unintended Pregnancy, and Gender-Based Violence.”
Speaking during the event, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi emphasized the need for sustained commitment towards improving the lives of children, adolescents, and young people across Africa.
Dr. Lishimpi said the presence of delegates and cooperating partners from Eastern, Southern, Western, and Central Africa reflected strong leadership and a shared understanding that Africa’s future depends on how effectively countries respond to challenges affecting young people.
“Your participation here today demonstrates strong leadership and a shared recognition that the future of Africa depends on how effectively we respond to the challenges facing our young people today,” he said.
He further expressed appreciation for the continued support from UNESCO and the governments of Sweden, Ireland, and Norway in prioritizing sexual and reproductive health services for young people.
Dr. Lishimpi also called for stronger partnerships and renewed commitment to accelerating progress for future generations.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Education Services Dr. Kelvin Mambwe highlighted the challenges facing adolescent girls and young women in Zambia.
Dr. Mambwe revealed that nearly 29 percent of girls aged between 15 and 19 have begun childbearing, while HIV prevalence among young women remains disproportionately high.
He said under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, Zambia has placed education at the center of national transformation through initiatives such as free education, the recruitment of more than 40,000 teachers, expansion of school infrastructure, school feeding programmes, and strengthened support for vulnerable learners.
“These reforms reflect Government’s conviction that education is the greatest equalizer and the most sustainable pathway to inclusive development,” Dr. Mambwe said.
Speaking on behalf of traditional leaders, Chief Madzimawe of the Ngoni people in Eastern Province pledged continued efforts to enforce traditional policies aimed at protecting vulnerable girls and encouraging them to remain in school.
The traditional leader also commended Government, UNESCO, and cooperating partners for their continued leadership in advancing education, health, and the well-being of young people across Africa.
By Samuel Mbewe