adminPaul Pindani
WOMEN’S Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Deputy Minister, Jennifer Mhlanga, said unity among stakeholders is needed to defend the girl child’s rights.
She made the call during a tour of Makonde Arts and Craft Festival stands at Murereka Primary School.
It coincided with the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The Deputy Minister urged traditional leaders to spearhead the campaign.
“I would like to warn would-be offenders that the long arm of the law will soon catch up with you.
“You are destroying the hope and future leaders,” she said.
The Deputy Minister urged members of society to play their watchdog role by reporting abuse cases.
“Let’s not protect offenders, but victims of abuse.
“I want to appeal to all relatives, especially mothers, not to sweep abuse cases under the carpet.
“This retards growth and development of the girl child,” she said.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Deputy Minister, Kindness Paradza, hailed men playing their part in the fight against child abuse.
“As men, we are in solidarity with women in condemning an upsurge in cases of child abuse and rape.
“We don’t want to see the girl child being abused,” he said.
Traditional leaders who graced the event vowed to play their part in the fight against child abuse.
Online Reporter