Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri has disclosed that Zambia continues to face increasing cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), with recent statistics painting a disturbing picture of abuse affecting children and young people.
Mr. Phiri revealed that according to the 2024 Zambia Demographic Health Survey, 26 percent of girls and 6 percent of boys reported that their first sexual experience was forced.
He further stated that one in every three females experiences sexual violence before the age of 18, while 42 percent of girls are married before reaching adulthood.
The Director of Public Prosecutions described the statistics as alarming and called for strengthened collaboration among institutions involved in the protection of vulnerable groups and the administration of justice.
Mr. Phiri was speaking during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding between the National Prosecution Authority and Lawyers without Borders aimed at enhancing cooperation in addressing justice-related challenges.
Meanwhile, Lawyers without Borders Project Manager Christopher Mayhew said the Memorandum of Understanding reflects a shared commitment and responsibility between the two institutions in strengthening access to justice and improving the response to sexual and gender-based violence cases.
He noted that the partnership is expected to support efforts aimed at promoting accountability, protecting victims, and enhancing the effectiveness of prosecution processes in Zambia.
By Samuel Mbewe
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