UCZ Launches Child Protection/Safeguarding Policy

The policy was launched at UCZ St Pauls congregation in Lusaka during a Candlelight church service to commemorate the 16 days of activism against `Gender Based ~Violence.

Speaking during the launch,UCZ Synod Community Development and Social Justice Secretary Deaconess Mable Sichali said the policy addresses operations surrounding the welfare of children and ensures that those working with children do not harm them.

Deaconess Sichali expressed gratitude that the policy document whose draft started in 2015 has finally been launched.

She also reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to developing an open and aware culture for children in all its environment.

“We will do everything to ensure that we safeguard children from all forms of abuse in our church and communities,”she said.

Deaconess Sichali echoed the need for stakeholders to come on board and support the Church in creating safe spaces for children at home, school and Church.

“As a Church we have started a child support campaign where we want children to have a conducive environment to grow and flourish,”She said.

Meanwhile,UCZ St Pauls Congregation Minister in Charge Rev.Chayana Nkonde said the policy document reflects the Church’s desire for love and care towards children.

Rev.Nkonde said the Church acknowledges rights of children and that they should be protected from all forms of abuse.

And in delivering his homily message,Lusaka Presbytery Bishop Dr.Rev Lordwell Siame reminded victims of Gender Based violence to report perpetrators to relevant authorities.

In reading 2nd Samuel 13:1-21,Dr.Rev Siame cautioned men against abusing women and called for love and unity in their marriages.

This year’s 16 days activism against Gender Based Violence is been commemorated under the theme,”UNiTE! activism to end violence against women and girls.”