THE High Commission of Zambia to South Africa would like to urge Zambians to be wary of exploitation whenever they travel to other countries, including South Africa.
The High Commission would like to warn all citizens, especially women, against being lured through false offers of employment or scholarships.
The Mission has continued to receive reports of trafficking of vulnerable people, especially women and children and would like to warn that there are criminals lurking out there seeking to entice unsuspecting and desperate foreign nationals, especially from the African continent.
There have been reports of Zambian children being trafficked and it is with this background that we would like to urge parents, guardians and all adults to ensure that maximum due care is taken whenever they have to allow minors to travel with other people or unaccompanied.
It has been observed that despite the commendable efforts of the South African government and other stakeholders to protect children from maltreatment, children have still remained vulnerable.
The High Commission warns that people should guard against getting lured by strangers who promise a better future as it might result in trafficking.
In the event of any approaches of offers of foreign employment, the Mission would like to encourage citizens to cross-check with relevant government departments in both Zambia and South Africa.
The Mission has learnt that victims are lured away from family and friends by the promise of a better life. They are forced to perform both legal and illegal work ranging from prostitution to street peddling to housekeeping and child care. Some victims are forced to work in restaurants, beauty salons and factories while others are drawn into submissive marriages or criminal activities.
Issued by:
Nicky Shabolyo
PRESS SECRETARY
HIGH COMMISSION OF ZAMBIA IN SOUTH AFRICA
Mobile: 00 27 810027548 Email: press@zambiapretoria.net; nshabolyo@gmail.com
PRETORIA – 15TH JUNE, 2016