by Dumisani Kumalo, Zimbabwe, March 1997
THEME = SOCIAL ACTION
Great concern is being expressed these days at the increase in all kinds of child abuse in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe's Government is reviewing current legislation, so that
the judicial system can tackle the problem of child abuse and
molestation more effectively. Organisations involved in the care
and safety of children, are failing to implement the Children's
Adoption and Protection Act. Street children, many of them
victims of abuse by parents and step-parents, are still around,
and fall easy victims to those who wish to "use" them
for their own pleasure.
Councillor Mohammed Esat, councillor for Bulawayo's
Ward One, says: "If those parents and guardians who abuse
the children, were to be prosecuted under the Children's
Protection Act, word would soon spread to others tempted to abuse
children".
When it comes to curb-crawlers in the towns and cities,
street children are tempted by ready cash offers which can be
anything from Z$15-Z$20 per "session". The children
need the money for food and to buy glue (which is inhaled).
Street children have given graphic accounts of what has
happened to them. Many of their statements have been corroborated
by relief workers, working among the destitute. Children are even
being lured away from officially-approved night accommodation,
where food and shelter is provided for them in what should be a
safe environment.
END