Lusaka, 21 June, 2025 / 9:30 pm (ACI Africa).
On the occasion of the annual World Refugee Day (WRD) marked on June 20 since 2001, the leadership of Caritas Zambia has called on the Zambian government and partners to strengthen legal protection and enhance social support mechanisms for refugees and displaced persons.
In a Friday, June 20 message, the Executive Director of Caritas Zambia, Fr. Gabriel Mapulanga, says, “Caring for refugees is not merely a humanitarian act; it is a profound moral imperative deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and guided by biblical teachings and Catholic Social Teaching.”
“Here in Zambia, Caritas is deeply committed to living out this faith. We focus on empowering young refugees with livelihood skills, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to build independent and fulfilling futures,” Fr. Mapulanga says in Caritas Zambia message for WRD 2025 realized under the theme, “Solidarity With Refugees – Ubuntu In Action.”
He adds, “We also recognize the profound emotional toll displacement can take. That is why our psychosocial counseling services are vital in helping individuals and families heal and cope with trauma.”
In the statement, Fr. Mapulanga recognizes that “addressing the needs of refugees requires collective effort, including strong partnerships with the government and other stakeholders.”
