By Lumbiwe Mwanza
GOVERNMENT has implored citizens to desist from using children or exposing them to naked acts regardless of the occasion as this leaves a long-lasting future impact on dignity and respect.
Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Doreen Sefuke Mwamba says the involvement of children to participate in naked traditional acts has potential of harming their welfare, safety, dignity, equality, development and health.
Ms. Mwamba says while ceremonies are appreciated, there is need to ensure traditional practice is tailored and responsive to the needs of the child, family and community hence the need to specifically being culturally considerate in the way as a nation we act during ceremonies and how children get involved.
She further disclosed that government will soon launch the national safeguarding framework, which is anchored on part xvii section 276 of the children’s code act.
The safeguarding framework will provide and require that organisations and institutions working directly or indirectly with children put in place child safety and regulations guidelines and structures to ensure that children are, and feel safe in every environment, which includes, schools, churches, and community as well as traditional institutions.
Given an opportunity to change Africa I would make the entire continent embrace the 21st century lifestyle. We can’t stick to certain culture at a time when technology is taking a center stage.