Beautiful Gates Zambia, a non-governmental organisation that advocates for the welfare of street kids has expressed dismay over the rising number of street kids in Kitwe.
Organisation Executive Director Bill Kaping’a tells Flava News that it is disturbing to learn the some people that are involved in illegal mining have taken advantage of the vulnerable situation are incorporating the children in their activities.
Mr. Kaping’a says they are now recruiting street kids as cheap labour for their illegal mining activities in various mines on the Copperbelt.
He says this is a clear violation of human rights, and Beautiful Gates will not allow the situation to continue as it exposes the children to hazardous conditions.
The organisation has since called on the authorities to look into the matter, warning that the lives of the children are being intentionally put at risk.