C-Sema strengthens global child protection commitments at the 11th International Consultation of Child Helplines.

Livingstone, Zambia – June 2025.

Late June took us to Livingstone, Zambia a place rich in beauty and purpose. Over 250 child protection leaders from across the globe gathered for the 11th International Consultation of Child Helplines.

Held from June 23–26, and hosted by the Government of Zambia, Childline Zambia, and Child Helpline International (CHI), the consultation focused on a powerful theme: “Children at the Centre! A Global Voice for Mental Health, Violence Prevention and Response – Envisioning Helplines for 2030.” And yes, it was as inspiring as it sounds.

This gathering created space for honest conversations on how we can protect children in an increasingly complex world.

Participants shared experiences, tools, and emerging practices to address challenges like violence, mental health, online abuse, inclusion, and discrimination. The sessions also reflected on how child helplines can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The energy in the room was forward-looking and action-driven.

Various global child protection leaders and actors.

C-Sema in the Room

C-Sema’s Head of Programs and Director, Michael Marwa, represented our team and the 116 Tanzania National Child Helpline. His contribution was hands-on and rooted in lived practice.

He facilitated a session on online child protection (Voice up online project) implemented by Child Helpline International in collaboration with child helplines globally . He also co-chaired the Regional Space for Africa, where the spotlight was Fundraising and resource mobilization for child helplines in Africa, leveraging on Artificial Intelligence for Child Helplines services at our contact centers and use of child helpline data for advocacy for policy influence and and implementation.

Mr. Michael Marwa during his session on Artificial Intelligence.

At a side event hosted by UNFPA Zambia, Mr. Marwa was invited to speak under the theme: “Our Unfinished Business: Accelerating Action to End Harmful Practices.'' He shared insights from Tanzania’s ongoing work, including the Zanzibar Communiqué, cross-border efforts with Kenya, and the development of the upcoming Anti-FGM Strategy 2025–2030, all with support from UNFPA Tanzania. His message was clear, child helplines are a critical part of the response to harmful traditional practices.

The consultation closed with the unveiling of the Livingstone Declaration a unified commitment to strengthen the role of child helplines in national protection systems.

What we’re bringing back home.

We return from Livingstone full of energy and conviction. More than ever, we believe that child helplines are not just services they are lifelines. And as custodians of the 116 Tanzania National Child Helpline, we’re recommitting ourselves to the mission: To listen. To protect. To act.

With new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and a deeper sense of global solidarity, we’re ready to keep building a future where every child is heard, protected, and empowered.

Prepared by C-Sema's Communication Team.