The legal framework
Female genital mutilation is not traditionally practised in Zambia and national surveys do not record it. The Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act covers harmful practices, and the Penal Code would apply to any act causing grievous harm. The question arises principally within migrant communities from countries where the practice exists.
The practice is not traditional in Zambia, and there is no dedicated offence. It falls under the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act and the general provisions on assault and child protection, which together give courts the power to make protection orders and to place a child at risk in safety. In practice the issue arises only in relation to families from countries where it is practised.
Key points
| Prevalence | Not a traditional practice; not recorded in national surveys |
|---|---|
| Legal basis | Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act and Penal Code provisions |
| Children | Child protection legislation applies |
| Reporting | Through police Victim Support Units |
| Care | Available in public health facilities |
| Migrant communities | The main context in which the question arises |
In practice
- Report any concern about a child to a police Victim Support Unit.
- Public health facilities can examine and refer.
- Organisations working with refugees and migrants can assist with language and context.
- Families travelling abroad should be aware of prohibitions elsewhere.
Where to go
- Police Victim Support Units.
- Public health facilities.
- Refugee and migrant support organisations.
Worth knowing
With no specific offence, cases are handled under the general gender-based violence framework. Naming the practice explicitly in any report helps it be taken seriously.
Frequently asked questions
How is it dealt with in Zambian law?
Through the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act and general offences against the person, together with child-protection powers. There is no provision naming the practice, and no recorded prosecutions, which reflects the fact that it is not a local practice.
What protection is available for a child at risk?
A protection order under the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act, which a court can make quickly, and placement in care where necessary. The Victim Support Unit of the police and the Department of Social Welfare are the points of contact.
Official sources and links
- World Health Organization — international reference on this topic
- WHO Regional Office for Africa — country data and programmes