17/07/2026
COUNSELLING ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA [CAZ] CALLS FOR INCREASED RECRUITMENT OF COUNSELLORS IN GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS
The Counselling Association of Zambia [CAZ] wishes to commend the Government of the Republic of Zambia for considering counsellors in the current recruitment exercise. This is a positive step towards recognizing counselling and mental health as essential services in our national development agenda.
However, we note with concern that the number of positions advertised is not commensurate with the need. With thousands of qualified counselling practitioners in the country, the allocation of only 30 positions falls far short of what is required to address the growing mental health needs across all government institutions.
Today, Zambia is facing an increase in mental health cases, including depression, trauma, substance abuse, GBV, and marital challenges. This burden is worsened by the continued under-representation of professional counsellors in schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other public institutions. The counselling profession can no longer be neglected.
CAZ therefore recommends that Government considers recruiting a significantly larger number of counsellors.Such an investment will bring a substantial difference in service delivery, early intervention, and prevention of mental health challenges in our communities.
BEYOND GOVERNMENT RECRUITMENT
As the mandated professional body, CAZ has not waited. We have proactively engaged stakeholders and private institutions to create additional employment opportunities for our members. We are pleased to report that our global partners are responding positively, and more opportunities are being unlocked.
We assure all practitioners and the public that CAZ will continue engaging Government with a strong and unified voice to advocate for increased recruitment of counsellors. This advocacy will remain a priority until every institution has adequate mental health and counselling support.
A CALL TO MEMBERS
As we continue advocating for you, we kindly request your cooperation. Let us work together and achieve the best. Protect and represent your Association with professionalism wherever you are. Encourage fellow practitioners to register for CAZ membership so that we remain a united and recognized voice.
Together, we can build a Zambia where mental health and counselling services are accessible to all.
Issued by:
The National Secretariat
Counselling Association of Zambia [CAZ]
Promoting Professional Counselling for National Wellbeing.