Government response on child abuse cases commendable
Yvonne Mutambwa
Over the past few weeks, Zimbabwe has woken up to disturbing headlines of children been abused sexually.
The case of the nine-year old Tsholotsho girl who gave birth through an operation is perhaps the most prominent of these disturbing cases.
After the issue came to light, more cases started to sprout at an alarming rate.
This begged for a national response, and it did not take time for the people-centred Second Republic leadership to pronounce themselves.
VP Chiwenga said stiffer penalties will be introduced against child abusers.
He made this vow at the belated World Children’s Day Commemorations in Harare where he was the guest of honor.
“The government is deeply concerned with sad cases under 10 getting pregnant. Stiffer penalties will have to be done not only to the perpetrators but I think also as parents, we have a responsibility to look after our children,” said VP Chiwenga.
Vice President Chiwenga said the law is clear and it will be enforced to its full extent.
“It does not matter what people can say. The child is somebody who has not yet reached 18 years, there is no issue of peer pressure or consent, up until one turns 18. I am happy parliament passed that,” VP Chiwenga added.
Efforts have already started to ensure that survivors of the abuse are supported fully to a point of rehabilitation into society.
Child protection organisations have called for more investigations into possible cases of child sexual abuse and exploitation.
Government`s position on the matter is encouraging as it shows that there is willingness by the highest office to put an end into the concerning trend.
Recent history has shown how Vice President Chiwenga`s proclamations are always followed up with action, from his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic to the rehabilitation of medical facilities.
There is likely to be movement around issues of child sexual abuse soon.
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