Chronicle Editor
Thandeka Moyo-Ndlovu, [email protected]
THE Child President Neville Mavu has called on parents and caregivers to priorities the protection of children from harmful practices and influences particularly during the festive season, which is often associated with merry-making.
This follows a widely circulated video showing two minors visibly drunk in Harare. Police have since identified two minors aged 13 and 11 years who were part of a group of children seen abusing alcohol in the video clip
The footage was taken in central Harare and investigations into how the minors got the alcohol have intensified.
Their parents have also been located while investigations are also in progress to identify the other children.
Mavu said it was worrying to note that children got the alcohol from an adult and started consuming it in the presence of other adults with the community watching.
He said the irresponsible behaviour seen in the video not only violates the law, but also poses serious risks to the health and well-being of the vulnerable children.
In a statement, Mavu said the incident is a distressing and disheartening matter that calls for an urgent action by all relevant stakeholders.
“Furthermore, as a child, it is troubling that children are purchasing and consuming alcohol despite being aware that it is unlawful and detrimental to their health and welfare. This points to a broader issue of awareness and education about the dangers of alcohol consumption, especially at a young age from the family and educational institutions,” he said.
“It also points to possible breaches of child protection as well as drug and alcohol policies and legislation that must be addressed by relevant authorities with urgency.”
The Child President commended the Government for its unwavering commitment to protecting children.
He lauded police for their timely response to the issue.
“I equally call the Children’s Welfare Council to take a keen interest on this matter, the Liquor Licensing Board to ascertain the responsible entities that must have been involved in the distribution and accommodating the children during their drinking spree, the community leadership as well as any other concerned citizens to take decisive steps towards identifying and bringing this matter to its reasonable and responsible end,” said Mavu.
He said efforts by these entities were crucial in terms of bringing those responsible to account for enabling underage drinking.
“This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect and support vulnerable children who are at risk of harm or neglect. As the Child President I urge parents, guardians, educators, and the community to join hands in safeguarding children from harmful influences and providing them with the care, guidance, and protection they deserve,” said Mavu.
“Let us support each other in this fight against drug and substance abuse not forgetting that ‘it takes the whole community to raise a child.'”
Sidumisile Mabena