By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
Zambia’s Muslim Faith-Based Organization has hailed President Hakainde Hichilema’s recognition of teenage pregnancies and child marriages as serious social challenges that undermine family structures and limit the potential of the nation’s youth.
President Hichilema made these remarks when he addressed Parliament and the country on progress made in the application of National Values and Principles, on Friday, 20th February 2026.
Family Development Initiatives (FDI) Team Leader Sheikh Yussuf Ayami particularly commended the reported efforts to counsel and reintegrate thousands of teenage girls who had previously dropped out of school due to early marriage.
He further acknowledged the President’s firm stance against gender-based violence (GBV), noting the establishment of one-stop centres and fast-track courts as important steps in protecting victims and ensuring justice.
Sheikh Ayami reiterated the President’s appeal for victims and families to report all cases of gender-based violence so that perpetrators may be held accountable.
“Initiatives such as free education, skills training, and empowerment programmes are significant measures aimed at restoring hope and opportunity for vulnerable families,” he said.
He also supported President Hichilema’s renewed call for the strengthening of family values, describing loving and stable families as the foundation of a responsible and prosperous nation.
During his national address, the President further expressed concern over rising divorce rates and the weakening of family structures in Zambia.
“The President’s address underscored the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the institution of marriage,” Sheikh Ayami noted.
“The President rightly emphasized morality and ethical conduct as central pillars shaping the character of families, communities, and the nation at large.”
Sheikh Ayami also noted that the government’s efforts to address social vices such as alcohol abuse, drug and substance misuse were critical interventions, given their direct impact on family well-being and social stability.
FDI welcomed the continued expansion of social protection programmes, including social cash transfers and food security initiatives, describing them as essential support mechanisms for vulnerable households.
“A caring and loving Zambian society must ensure equal opportunities and fair distribution of resources to support families without discrimination,” he said.
“FDI remains committed to working with partners, including the United Nations and other stakeholders, to promote family dignity, strengthen social values, and build resilient communities capable of withstanding modern social pressures.”
