Traditional Healer Faces Child Trafficking Charges

By MakanDay Editor

The recent court appearance of Chilufya Chileya, 52—widely known as Kalonga Kanono, a well-known traditional healer based in Lusaka—has brought renewed urgency to our investigation. He is now facing charges of human trafficking, with disturbing links to the exploitation of minors.

On July 26, Chileya appeared before Resident Magistrate Amy Masoja, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. Chileya, a businessman of Makeni Villa, is jointly charged with Natasha Chileshe, 21, and Ebba Chileshe, 32, also from Makeni in Lusaka.

The trio faces charges of child trafficking, contrary to Section 3A (1) of the Anti-Human Trafficking (Amendment) Act No. 16 of 2022 of the Laws of Zambia.

The Allegations

It is alleged that Chileya and his co-accused targeted young girls between the ages of 13 and 16, exploiting their vulnerability through promises of love, protection, and financial support. Critics say Chileya used his spiritual influence to win the trust of these minors, offering them attention and affection they may have lacked elsewhere.

According to the charge sheet, on June 2, 2024, in Lusaka, the three accused—acting together—trafficked a 15-year-old girl within Zambia for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

Why This Matters

MakanDay first reported in January this year on similar allegations involving Chileya. At the time, multiple accounts emerged suggesting that he was preying on vulnerable teenage girls under the guise of care and protection.

In one case, a 15-year-old girl, whose identity is protected, shared her troubling experience. She said Chileya, who lives in her neighbourhood, had been pursuing her for some time—regularly stopping her on the street to compliment her appearance and asking her to get into his vehicle, which she consistently refused.

She further revealed that he somehow obtained her phone number and began calling, texting, and sending money—all unsolicited. Feeling threatened and uncomfortable, she eventually confided in her mother.

This court case, now in motion, underscores the grave and often hidden nature of child exploitation under the guise of cultural or spiritual authority. MakanDay remains committed to following the developments and exposing those who exploit vulnerable children for personal gain.