The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) is a key partner in IRLI's Zambia programme and through its Gender-Based Crimes Department (GBCD) it plays a vital role in prosecuting these crimes and advocating for stronger legal protections. We caught up with Monde Manyando Muyoba-Chizongo, Senior State Advocate, and Chali Mbewe Hambayi, the Director of the GBCD.
L:R: Monde Manyando Muyoba-Chizongo, Senior State Advocate and Chali Mbewe Hambayi, Director of the GBCD
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains one of Zambia’s most pressing human rights challenges, affecting individuals across all social and economic backgrounds. Senior State Advocate, Monde Manyando Muyoba-Chizongo, and Director of the GBCD, Chali Mbewe Hambayi, have been at the forefront of efforts to combat GBV and advance justice for women and children in Zambia. This interview highlights the essential work being done by the GBCD to combat gender-based violence and advance justice for women and children in Zambia.
Can you introduce yourselves and your roles?
Monde: I am a Senior State Advocate in the GBCD at the NPA, based in Lusaka. Since 2016, I have specialised in prosecuting cases of sexual violence, domestic violence, and child protection.
Chali: I am the Director of the GBCD at the NPA, also based in Lusaka. I have been with the NPA since 2006, overseeing the prosecution of GBV-related crimes and ensuring the effective implementation of gender justice policies.
Can you describe the work of the Gender-Based Crimes Department?
Monde: The GBCD prosecutes cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), domestic violence, and child protection offences. We collaborate with specialised courts like the Anti-GBV fast-track courts, juvenile courts, and Children’s Courts to ensure timely and effective prosecution.
Chali: Our work also involves handling cases where children are in conflict with the law. We focus on victim-centred prosecution strategies while working closely with social workers, the police, and other key stakeholders to provide comprehensive support to survivors.
The National Procecution Authority's GBCD Team following a landmark case, marking the first time victim impact statements were heard in Zambia.
Can you explain your current roles and responsibilities?
Monde: As a Senior State Advocate, I prosecute criminal cases, provide legal guidance to government departments, and supervise other prosecutors. I also lead outreach programmes to raise awareness on GBV and foster collaboration with law enforcement. Additionally, I have participated in the development of resource materials such as the Prosecutor’s Handbook on Sexual Violence and work closely with agencies like the Zambia Police (Victim Support Unit and Child Protection Unit) to strengthen investigations and prosecutions.
Chali: As Director, I supervise GBV-related prosecutions across the country and ensure the effective implementation of policies. I lead the development of essential prosecutorial handbooks and guidelines, including the GBV Handbook for Prosecutors and Minimum Standards for Child Witnesses and Victims. I also provide guidance to law enforcement on GBV investigations and coordinate with key partners to improve victim support systems.
What are the main gender issues you are currently working on?
Monde: We are strengthening victim protection and focusing on evidence-based prosecution, particularly in complex SGBV cases or where victims are unable to testify. We’ve introduced online training for prosecutors to enhance their skills in handling SGBV cases while minimising retraumatisation for victims. We are also advocating for legislative reforms to improve victim rights and referral pathways.
Chali: One of our biggest challenges is victims withdrawing their testimonies due to societal and family pressure, which often prevents justice from being served. To address this, we provide logistical and psychological support through the Witness Management Fund and use evidence-based prosecution methods to proceed with cases even if victims withdraw. Additionally, we are expanding the Multi-Disciplinary Team Committees, which bring together health practitioners, social workers, police, and civil society organisations to improve support for victims
We’ve introduced online training for prosecutors to enhance their skills in handling SGBV cases while minimising retraumatisation for victims."
Can you describe the relationship between the NPA and IRLI?
Monde: Irish Rule of Law International (IRLI) has been instrumental in building our capacity to handle SGBV and child justice cases. Their support in training and technical assistance has been invaluable, particularly through exchange visits to Ireland and Northern Ireland, which have influenced departmental restructuring and case management improvements.
Chali: IRLI has provided training for over 200 prosecutors across several provinces and supported the annual Prosecutors' Conference, where more than 600 prosecutors from Zambia and neighbouring countries have gained insights into international best practices. IRLI also played a key role providing insights while we drafted Zambia’s first Prosecutor Guidelines for Children in the Criminal Justice System. IRLI has also been pivotal in establishing the Mobile Court Scheme, which helps expedite cases and reduce prison congestion.
What’s in store for the future? Any upcoming initiatives?
Monde: We are expanding prosecutor training, particularly on emerging crimes like cyber-related offences such as online sexual exploitation. We are also advocating for legislative changes to allow remote testimony in SGBV cases, particularly for adult victims. Other initiatives include rolling out an updated Sexual Violence Handbook and improving the use of ICT equipment in courts to ensure victim-friendly proceedings.
During a school visit, where the GBCD gave lectures to teachers on issues of child abuse, Zambia.
Chali: Our key initiatives include restructuring and decentralising the department across all provinces and rebranding to focus more on child justice. We will expand prosecutor training through a Training of Trainers initiative and launch revised guidelines for handling SGBV and child justice cases. We also plan to scale up online training on cybercrimes and install ICT equipment in children’s courts for better protection of young victims.
Additionally, we are advocating for remote evidence centres, using forfeited criminal assets to create shelters for GBV victims, and drafting a Victims of Crimes Act to strengthen victim protections. We will also intensify community outreach to raise awareness about GBV and child justice issues.
Greater public engagement, especially with traditional leaders, is essential to addressing harmful practices like child marriage that perpetuate gender inequality. Through continued advocacy and systemic reforms, we aim to create a more just and equitable society for all."
What are the biggest factors in mobilising gender equality in Zambia?
Monde: Strengthening the implementation of gender equality laws, such as the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Act and the Gender Equity and Equality Act, is essential. Public awareness, education, and engaging men and boys in conversations about gender equality are crucial. We must challenge harmful cultural practices and ensure equal opportunities for women and girls in education and employment.
Chali: Key challenges include deeply ingrained cultural norms that subordinate women and girls, limiting their access to education and economic opportunities. Weak enforcement of gender equality laws also hinders women’s access to justice. There is a need for stronger gender mainstreaming in both public and private sectors to ensure policies are inclusive. Strengthening oversight mechanisms is crucial to compel organisations to adopt gender-responsive measures.
Greater public engagement, especially with traditional leaders, is essential to addressing harmful practices like child marriage that perpetuate gender inequality. Through continued advocacy and systemic reforms, we aim to create a more just and equitable society for all.
Resources
The Gender-Based Crime Department (GBCD) of the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), Zambia