MINISTER of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu has revealed that a total of 1,002 rape cases and 4,978 defilement cases were reported to the Zambia Police Service between January 2021 and July 2025.
Mwiimbu described the figures as alarming, underscoring the continued threat of sexual violence in Zambian communities, particularly against young girls and women.
The minister disclosed that out of the reported cases, 346 convictions were secured for rape, while 1,978 convictions were recorded for defilement.
Mwiimbu was addressing a question from Roan member of parliament Joel Chibuye, who sought clarification in Parliament on the number of rape and defilement cases that had been recorded.
He stated that the most affected age group in rape cases are females aged between 17 and 25 years.
For defilement cases, girls between the ages of 5 and 13 years remain the most vulnerable.
“It is deeply troubling that our children continue to suffer such traumatic experiences, but as government, we are committed to fighting these heinous crimes through a multi-sectoral approach,” Mwiimbu said.
The minister outlined several measures being implemented to address sexual offenses, including community sensitisation campaigns in schools, markets and churches.
“Training community leaders on gender-based violence and sexual offenses, Capacity-building programmes for police officers on handling victims of sexual abuse.
He acknowledged that while stiff punishments are in place, they alone are not enough to deter perpetrators.
Instead, he emphasised the need for broader societal involvement and support systems for survivors.
“We shall not allow the withdrawal of cases involving rape or defilement. Such actions undermine justice and embolden offenders. We are putting our foot down to ensure deterrence and justice for victims,” Mwiimbu declared.
He further noted that many families are reluctant to report or follow through with legal proceedings when such crimes occur, often due to fear of stigma or pressure from within the family or society.
“Family members are often a setback in the pursuit of justice. Many are unwilling to expose their children to court processes, but this only allows the cycle of abuse to continue,” added the minister.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba October 3, 2025
