PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
New York, 13.03.25 – Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami, has affirmed Zambia’s strong political commitment to eliminating all forms of child marriage, aligning with global standards, and strengthening collaboration with international partners.
The Permanent Secretary was speaking at a high-level event co-hosted by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)/ United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Global Programme on ending child marriage on the sidelines of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women which is taking place the United Nations Headquarters.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Government’s unwavering commitment to accelerating efforts to end all forms of child marriage.
Ms. Kawandami expressed readiness to collaborate with global partners to mobilise financial resources and community engagement needed to secure every girls’ right to a safe, healthy, and empowered life.
The side event held under the theme, “Bridging the Gap: From Beijing to 2030 – Ending Child Marriage in all forms” was also sponsored by Zambia and Canada who have been leading on the UN Resolution on Ending Child, Early and Forced Marriage.
Other co-sponsors of the event included the United Kingdom, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), Girls Not Brides, Girls First Fund and Zonta International.
Issued by:
Namatama Njekwa
First Secretary – Press and Public Relations
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Zambia to the United Nations
