ABSTRACT
The number of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Zambia has been on the increase since the 1990s. Responses to the needs of OVC in Zambia are deeply rooted in the African philosophical orientation of Convivencia or Ubuntuism—the idea that we are interconnected by virtue of our shared humanity. The government of Zambia is a signatory to, and has ratified, major international treaties and conventions with respect to the child. The Zambian government has organized and conducted information campaigns on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) prevention and treatment. Zambia has a comprehensive legal and policy framework to support the country's HIV/AIDS initiatives. Overall, the National AIDS Strategic Framework has alleviated suffering among vulnerable children in Zambia. As observed, the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Child Development provides legal support and protection to OVC in Zambia. Strengthening Community Partnerships for the Empowerment-OVC has facilitated implementation of community-based schools.
