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From Scrap to Second Chances: Reforming Juveniles Through Justice

On the 2nd of July 2024, during what seemed like a routine screening at the Kabwata Police Station Paralegal Desk, the paralegal team stumbled upon three young boys whose lives had taken a dangerous turn. Aged 13, 16, and17, these boys had been arrested by ZESCO Police at Maxwell Sibongo Police Post in Lusaka. Their crime? Theft and vandalism of ZESCO property. For two days, they sat in detention, their futures hanging in the balance. But this was no simple case of juvenile crime. These boys, all hailing from Misis Compound, had dropped out of school and turned to the streets to survive. In the shadows of one of Lusaka's most underserved communities, they made their living by selling scrap metal, sacrificing their education and future in exchange for daily survival. What led themto crime was not a desire for wealth or thrill, but desperation. With no access to education or proper support, their only escape was the dangerous path of petty theft. This is where the true essence of justice comes into play, not inpunishment, but in providing opportunities for reform and reintegration.The paralegal officers, trained to see beyond the crime and into the circumstances that lead young offenders astray, decided to take action. In collaboration with the Child Protection Unit (CPU) and ZESCO Security, they facilitated a diversionary process, aiming to rehabilitate rather than incarcerate the boys. Through this intervention, the boys admitted their wrongdoing. They expressed genuine remorse and a willingness to cooperate withauthorities—an important step in any restorative justice process. The paralegals, along with key stakeholders, referred them to the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) Lusaka Youth Drop-In Centre for crime awareness sessions and behavioural change counselling. This was not just an intervention; it was a lifeline. By leveraging community support structures and alternative justice mechanisms, these boys were given a second chance—an opportunity to leave their criminal past behind and reintegrate into society. The counselling at YWCA was not merely about avoiding future crimes; it was about reshaping their perspectives, building their self-worth, andshowing them that another path was possible. Three young lives, once derailed…

Legal Resources Foundation Shines at EnACT Expo 2024

The Legal Resources Foundation (LRF) proudly participated in the EnACT Expo 2024, themed "Building Partnerships, Driving Change." Held on 14th November 2024 at the Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka, the event celebrated innovation, collaboration, and progress in advancing Access to Justice, Civil Society Participation, and Transparency. Graced by distinguished officials, including the Honourable Minister of Justice, the GIZ Country Director, and the Team Leader from the European Union Delegation to Zambia, the Expo served as a dynamic platform for fostering partnerships and inspiring transformative initiatives. LRF's exhibition highlighted its impactful work, particularly its 13 paralegal desks operating in Lusaka and the Southern Province, which provide crucial legal aid to underserved communities. The interactive showcase garnered significant attention and earned LRF a participation award and recognition as the third-best exhibitor for excellence in exhibition and innovation. This remarkable achievement underscores LRF’s commitment to empowering communities and promoting equitable access to justice. The event was supported by the Germany Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and co-funded by the European Union (EU) under the Enabling Access to Justice, Civil Society Participation, and Transparency Programme. LRF extends its heartfelt appreciation to EnACT team and its partners for organizing this impactful event. The Expo has inspired us to continue building partnerships and driving change in the justice sector. We invite you to stay connected as we embark on new initiatives inspired by our participation in the EnACT Expo 2024.

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