By Pamela Adinda
 |
| Group Photo of the Task Force Team working on AMECEA Child Protection Policy Framework |
Rev. Fr. Bernard Malasi from Malindi Diocese in Kenya has urged the African Societies to be more proactive towards child protection initiatives by shunning the culture of silence which is the reason why child abuse cases are not frequently highlighted.
Speaking to AMECEA Online News in Nairobi, Fr. Malasi said “It is not factually known the magnitude of the problem of child abuse in many African countries judging from what has been reported. However, the issue cannot just be swept under the carpet; it is a crime and a grave sin therefore the need to develop frameworks through which the problem can be detected and solved as well as putting necessary preventive measures in place.”
Fr Malasi who is a member of a task force committee working on child protection policy framework for AMECEA Region explained that once completed, the framework will work as a reference document to each Bishops’ Conference or diocese within the region.
He also said that the document will provide a pointer towards assessment on how individuals and institutions that deal directly with children and minors have acted to protect the children from potential abuse.
Once the framework is completed it will be the responsibility of AMECEA Secretariat to get the necessary approval from the Bishops as well as to champion the document.
∽End∽