Youth in Kasamba, Zambia sensitised on safeguarding issues

Every year, on 12th March 2026, Zambia celebrates its youth by declaring the day a holiday to remind young people of their importance, empower them, help them recognize their vital contributions to national development, and encourage active participation in shaping the country’s future.

The Zambian Church is not left out in this celebration of the youth. Every year, the youth of St. John the Baptist Parish, Kasamba, Zambia, gather to celebrate this day. This year, they gathered once again at the parish level, and we seized the opportunity to raise awareness and educate them on safeguarding.

The turnout was massive, and their participation in the session was overwhelming. Topics addressed included: emotional, physical, verbal, and sexual abuse. The questions they asked and the contributions they made demonstrate that these issues are not unfamiliar to them; rather, they have never had an opportunity to speak about them. We encouraged them not to stay silent when they witness cases of abuse and explained the appropriate channels for reporting such cases.

The session was organized by Fr. Michael Okunola M.Afr, the chaplain for the youth at the parish level, and the guest speaker was Sr. Agnes Chisenga FMDM (Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood).

By: Michael Okunola, M.Afr.