GOVERNMENT has launched the countdown to the 11th International Consultation of Child Helplines (IC 2025), a high level global conference that will bring together child protection experts, policymakers, technology innovators and mental health advocates in Livingstone from 24 to 26 June 2025.
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The announcement was made by Community Development and Social Services Minister Doreen Mwamba, during a media breakfast held in Lusaka on yesterday.
Flanked by senior government officials, UN representatives, and child protection partners, Mwamba described the event as a major milestone for Zambia’s child protection efforts.
“This is more than just a gathering. It is a global platform to reaffirm our shared responsibility in ensuring every child is safe, heard and supported, especially in times of crisis,” said Mwamba.
Held under the theme “Children at the Centre: A Global Voice for Mental Health, Violence Prevention, and Response,” the conference will bring together over 300 participants from across the world, including child helpline professionals, representatives from UNICEF, UNFPA, industry stakeholders and civil society organisations.
Lifeline/Childline Zambia, in partnership with Child Helpline International, will host the prestigious event..
Past host nations include the United Kingdom, South Africa, Sweden, Canada, and the Netherlands.
The Minister said Zambia’s selection to host the IC 2025 is a recognition of the country’s growing commitment to child rights and protection systems.
She called on the media to play an active role in championing the conference, saying journalists have the power to amplify children’s voices and shape public policy.
“Your storytelling can shift mindsets, mobilise support and drive policy change,” she told media representatives in attendance.
The conference will feature a distinguished panel of Permanent Secretaries from key ministries, who will discuss how helplines can be integrated into broader protection and mental health frameworks.
Topics will include the use of technology for safeguarding, the role of helplines in addressing trauma, and strategies for preventing violence against children.
Lifeline/Childline Zambia executive director Florence Nkhuwa expressed pride in Zambia joining the global family of countries that have hosted this consultation.
“This event underscores our dedication to advancing child helplines and positions Zambia as a pivotal player on the international stage,” said Nkhuwa.
IC 2025 is expected to conclude with renewed commitments from global helpline stakeholders to ensure every child, everywhere, has access to toll free, 24/7 child helpline services, particularly in countries that still lack these crucial lifelines.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, June 21, 2025
