Tendai Keith Guvamombe –Harare Zimbabwe
The government of Zimbabwe has emphatically positioned social protection as a core national priority and a key pillar for achieving a prosperous nation, a message delivered at the World Children’s Day commemorations.
State Minister for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Tawengwa, read the statement on behalf of Vice President K.C.D. Mohadi, aligning the country with the global theme, “My Day My Rights: From Promises to Action.”
The address characterized social protection as a “transformative tool” essential for supporting sustainable national projects and ensuring the safety of every child. The government is actively working to translate promises into binding obligations, stressing the importance of listening to children and guaranteeing their access to basic social services.
Education and Legislative Reform
A major highlight was the focus on Education as the national vision’s cornerstone. The government is implementing a Heritage-Based Curriculum to drive inclusive education and industrialization. Schemes like the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) were praised as a lifeline for vulnerable households, breaking financial barriers to schooling.
Furthermore, the commitment to an Early Warning System for schools underscores the push for comprehensive care.
Crucially, the government is moving to strengthen child welfare through legislative reform. The speech noted the ongoing process of amending the Children’s Act to broaden the definition of children in care.
This amendment, already passed into law in 2023, now includes children who are pregnant, unaccompanied, or at risk of unlawful marriage, significantly expanding the scope of state protection.
Combating Drug Abuse
The Vice President’s statement also flagged drug abuse as a devastating challenge and a threat to national development, putting young people at severe risk.
This requires a united, multi-sectoral response. He called upon the government, civic society, and faith-based communities to join hands in a collective effort to safeguard the youth from this destructive vice. The overall commitment is clear: working collaboratively will ensure Zimbabwe meets its national targets for child welfare and development.
