Mbabala Member of Parliament, Mr. Joseph Munsanje, who is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on Children, said the partnership between Members of Parliament and UNICEF, to promote children’s education and welfare in Luapula Province is a demonstration of their shared commitment to advancing children’s rights and development.

Mr Munsanje said the collaboration, which brings together Parliament, UNICEF and traditional leaders, seeks to transform policy commitments into practical actions that improve learning conditions, health and protection for children at community level.

He said this when Members of the Parliamentary Caucus on Children and UNICEF Zambia undertook a joint field mission conducted from 31^st October to 3^rd November, 2025 under the Equal Chances for Human Development Programme.

Mr. Munsanje said the programme which began in Chifunabuli District, has provided an opportunity for Members of Parliament to interact with traditional leaders, school administrators and parents. He explained that through these engagements, the delegation observed ongoing efforts to establish Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, address teacher shortages and secure land titles for school sites.

Mr Munsanje urged the district and traditional authorities to expedite the allocation of land for school infrastructure and utilise the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to construct teacher accommodation. He said that doing so would help retain teachers and improve the quality of education, particularly in rural communities.

Meanwhile, Luapula Province Minister, Hon. Eng. Nason Musonda, commended the collaboration between Parliament, UNICEF and local leaders in advancing children’s welfare. He said Luapula Province remains committed to ensuring that no child is left behind and that the Government, together with its partners, would continue to improve access to education, health and protection services.

UNICEF Representative in Zambia, Dr. Nejmudin K. Bilal, stated that UNICEF was dedicated to supporting government efforts in realizing children’s rights through practical and sustainable interventions. He said the Equal Chances for Human Development Programme connects education, nutrition and child protection, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

And speaking on behalf of traditional leaders, HRH Dr. Chief Chisunka, who is also Chairperson of the Luapula Council of Chiefs, said traditional authorities appreciate the initiative and would continue to provide land for the construction of ECD centres. He noted that traditional leaders were also sensitizing parents on the importance of keeping children, especially girls, in school.

The delegation visited several districts where they engaged with local communities, school managements and civic leaders on issues affecting children’s education and welfare. The mission concluded with a reflection session between Members of Parliament, UNICEF and the Provincial Administration, which outlined key follow-up actions.

The meeting also resolved to accelerate the issuance of land titles, prioritize teacher housing under the 2026 CDF cycle and ensure the inclusion of children with disabilities in development programmes. The engagements demonstrated that when Parliament, traditional leaders and development partners work together, lasting progress for Zambia’s children can be achieved.