The Joining Forces Alliance is deeply alarmed by the rising cases of rape and defilement across the country. We are particularly disturbed by the fact that these heinous crimes are being committed by individuals entrusted with the duty to protect children. We commend the Government’s swift action to shut down one facility in Lusaka allegedly perpetrating child abuse and arresting perpetrators.

At a press conference held on Monday in Lusaka, the alliance, comprised of six leading child-focused organizations, including Save the Children, World Vision Zambia, Plan International Zambia, Child Fund, SOS Children's Villages International, and Terre des Hommes International Federation, expressed deep concern over the rising cases of child sexual abuse. Reports indicate that children are increasingly being victimized in spaces meant to be safe havens, such as homes, schools, and orphanages.

In many communities across Zambia, expectant mothers face an uphill battle in accessing the essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy. Traditional antenatal care has long relied on iron and folic acid (IFA) supplements, but coverage gaps, sociocultural barriers, and adherence challenges have limited their effectiveness. This has left many pregnant and postpartum women vulnerable to micronutrient deficiencies, which can lead to complications such as anemia, low birth weight, and even maternal mortality.

Namwala district, like many parts of Zambia, is facing the harsh impacts of climate change, including prolonged droughts and deforestation. To help combat these challenges, World Vision Zambia, through its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) program, has initiated a tree planting activity aimed at restoring the environment and promoting sustainable water management. By planting trees in key areas such as schools, communities, and along water sources, this initiative is helping to improve soil retention, reduce water loss, and create a greener, more resilient landscape.

In an inspiring conversation, children had the opportunity to interview World Vision Zambia’s National Director, Marc Nosbach, about the organization’s efforts to improve child well-being across the country. The young interviewers asked insightful questions about access to clean water, education, and food security, highlighting the real challenges they and their peers face daily.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, World Vision Zambia People & Culture Director Ngoza Faith Sakala Kabaso, extends a message to all women, recognizing their strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions to our workplaces, families, and communities.

National governance and infrastructures supporting children and young people’s collective participation in public decision-making.

In 2024, World Vision International – Cambodia (WVI-C) made a profound impact, reaching over 3 million children across the country. Through strategic partnerships with government institutions, donors, and civil society, we implemented programs in education, health, child protection, economic development, and climate resilience. These efforts directly contributed to Cambodia’s Pentagonal Strategy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping to break cycles of poverty and create sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities. Key achievements this year included providing quality education to over 197,000 children, training more than 3,000 teachers, and expanding health and nutrition services to 54,000 children and 19,000 pregnant women. Our economic empowerment programs helped over 4,000 farmers adopt climate-smart agriculture, while social accountability initiatives improved public service delivery in over 60% of communes. Additionally, youth-led research on climate change influenced national conversations on environmental sustainability. These achievements would not have been possible without the collaboration of development agencies, corporate sponsors, and government ministries. With funding from organizations such as the World Bank, DFAT, EU, GIZ, and SDC, we continue to scale impactful solutions for Cambodia’s children. As we move forward, we invite development partners and stakeholders to join us in building a future where every child in Cambodia can dream, learn, and thrive. Together, we create lasting change.