Government has called on the private sector to partner with Copper Rose Zambia in supporting the organisation’s initiative aimed at raising over K250,000 to renovate and equip a safe house for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Lusaka.
Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, has described the initiative as a powerful expression of the government’s shared commitment to creating safe environments where youths can thrive.
The Media reports that in a speech read on his behalf by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Kangwa Chileshe, during Copper Rose Zambia’s 10th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Lusaka last evening, Mr Nkandu noted that SGBV hinders youths from participating in sports, arts, education and leadership.
“A safe house is more than shelter, it is the first step towards healing, security, and renewed potential. This partnership with YWCA and Copper Rose Zambia demonstrates the multisectoral approach required to tackle this national challenge. This is not just social work, this is nation-building,” he said.
Mr Nkandu further stated that government recognises that the responsibility of youth empowerment cannot rest on civil society and government alone, and urged the corporate sector to rise to the occasion.
Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kennedy Lishimpi, in a speech read for him by Zambia Association of Gynaecology (ZAGO) President, Dr Samson Chisele, commended Copper Rose Zambia for championing menstrual health long before it became a mainstream conversation.
Dr Lishimpi indicated that in partnership with the Ministry of Health, Copper Rose Zambia has reduced stigma, promoted hygiene and advocated for policy improvements.
He added that menstrual health interventions have significantly contributed to keeping girls in school and improving women’s dignity.
Meanwhile, Copper Rose Zambia Board Chairperson, Cheswa Vwalika disclosed that Copper Rose Zambia has reached over 250,000 adolescents and young people with important messages on sexual and reproductive health, HIV prevention and mental health.
Dr Vwalika also disclosed that Copper Rose reached 25,000 boys and young men across seven districts and reduced school dropout risks.
“Over 12,000 young people were referred to essential services, and we trained more than 1,000 healthcare providers to deliver youth-friendly care,” she added.
