From 29th October to 1st November 2024, TAKUZA in Chilabombwe district hosted a dynamic capacity-building training on Human Trafficking and the Smuggling of Migrants. The workshop brought together 35 dedicated officers from the Judiciary, Ministry of Education, Zambia Police, Drug Enforcement Commission, Department of Immigration, Social Welfare, Zambia Correctional Services, ZANIS, Religious Women from the Catholic Church and other key ministries.
The training aimed to strengthen the everyday work of frontline officers by equipping them with practical knowledge, confidence and tools to respond more effectively to trafficking and smuggling cases.
Throughout the workshop, participants shared their experiences, learned from one another and explored real-life scenarios that they encounter in their communities, especially that it is close to a border town. One of the key areas covered was victim identification, including the use of the PEACE interviewing model, which helps officers engage with victims in a respectful and supportive manner. The sessions also highlighted the importance of teamwork across different agencies, recognizing that collaboration is essential when dealing with complex cases.
By the end of the four days, participants left with strengthened investigative, case-handling and coordination skills. The training not only enhanced their understanding of trafficking and smuggling but also renewed their commitment to protecting vulnerable people in their communities.
Chilabombwe’s training marked another important step in building a more informed and united response to Trafficking in Persons (TIP) and the Smuggling of Migrants (SOM) across Zambia, which resulted in the sucesssful prosecution of a Human Trafficking Case.