President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Zambia, pledging enhanced government support during a meeting at State House yesterday, 14th November, 2024, with the National Gender Machinery, a consortium of Government agencies, NGOs and other stake holders dedicated to ending GBV.
Mrs. C. Mbewe Hambayi, the Deputy Chief State Advocate in charge of Gender-Based Crimes, highlighted the National Prosecution Authority’s (NPA) progress in fighting gender based violence particularly the establishment of the specialized department and the quick turnover of cases in court. She also outlined the vision of the NPA to increase support services for victims through friendly court preparation rooms and recruiting additional Witness Officers. The DCSA explained that the capacity building is ongoing for all prosecutors through continuous trainings and capacity building.
Some of the challenges highlighted included the lack of resources for victims whilst at court and the limited court space that has led to some delays in concluding matters. She also highlighted the need to increase staffing levels in the department and sought support for further capacitation.
In response, the President reaffirmed his commitment to fight the scourge of GBV in Zambia and pledged his unawavering support to the crime fighters at the NPA. The President urged the NPA and the general public to look forward to increased commitment from government and to resolve the hurdles standing in the way of access to justice for victims of GBV. The President also announced the launch of the voluntary national service as means to curb the rise in youth crime and delinquency.
