Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
GOVERNMENT says it will continue creating appropriate opportunities for children to express themselves and participate in decisions that affect their lives.
This was said by Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Mercy Dinha, who is leading a delegation of various Children’s Homes countrywide.
They had so far visited Lirhanzo Children’s Home in Mwenezi District, Alpha Cottages in Masvingo District, Little Birds in Bikita District and Shekinah Glory in Zvishavane.
In her address, Deputy Minister Dinha said she applauded the provincial and district Social Development teams, management and caregivers of these institutions for the work that they continue to do caring for and protecting children placed in residential care facilities.
“This visit is particularly important to me because child protection is not only about policies, legislation and programmes, it is ultimately about the lives, dignity, safety and future of individual children,” she said.
“It is therefore important for Government leadership to periodically come to institutions such as this one, see the situation on the ground, listen to those providing care and, most importantly, listen to the children themselves.”
“I intend to gain a first-hand appreciation of the living conditions, care and wellbeing of children residing in this institution. I also wish to understand how the institution is operating, the services being provided to children, the support being received from Government and other stakeholders, as well as the challenges being experienced by management and caregivers.
“I am particularly interested in understanding whether children are receiving appropriate food and nutrition, education, health care, psychosocial support, protection and opportunities for their overall development. I also wish to appreciate the progress being made in family tracing, reunification and reintegration, where this is in the best interests of the child.”
She said the Government remains committed to ensuring that every child enjoys his or her rights and is protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation and all forms of violence.
Deputy Minister Dinha said their child protection interventions are guided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Children’s Act and other relevant legislation, policies and standards governing the care and protection of children.
“We are also strengthening our approach to alternative care by promoting family preservation, prevention of unnecessary separation and family-based care, while ensuring that residential care remains available for children who genuinely require such protection,” she said.
“Where a child is placed in residential care, such placement should provide a safe, nurturing and developmental environment, rather than simply providing accommodation.
“As Government, we recognise that, wherever it is safe and in the child’s best interests, children should grow up in a family environment. I therefore encourage Social Development Officers and institutions to continue prioritising family tracing, assessment, reunification and reintegration, supported by appropriate follow-up and aftercare.
“At the same time, we must recognise that every child’s circumstances are different. Decisions regarding reunification or any alternative care arrangement must be guided by the best interests of the child, safety considerations and proper professional assessment.”
She reiterated that the visits were not merely a ceremonial exercise but part of the Government’s responsibility to see, listen, understand and respond to the realities affecting children and those entrusted with their care.
