derick.khumalo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, [email protected]
THE National Child Protection Conference enters its fourth and final day today at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) in Bulawayo, with Vice President Kembo Mohadi expected to deliver the keynote address.
The conference, organised by the Government in partnership with UNICEF and the Swedish Government, has brought together policymakers, development partners, child rights advocates and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening child protection systems and improving the welfare of children across the country.
Over the past three days, delegates have deliberated on key issues affecting children, including birth registration, disability inclusion and Early Childhood Development (ECD).
The opening day focused on the importance of legal identity as a foundation for child protection. Assistant Registrar-General for Births and Deaths in the Civil Registry Department, Mrs Lettisia Zinengeya, said birth registration goes beyond documentation and serves as a gateway to education, healthcare, social welfare services and legal protection.
She said a birth certificate provides proof of identity and age, helping protect children from risks such as child labour, child marriage and other forms of exploitation.
“Birth registration is much more than a civil registry process; it is a cornerstone of social protection and child rights,” said Mrs Zinengeya.
Participants also examined barriers affecting birth registration, particularly in remote communities, while highlighting measures being implemented to improve access through digitalisation, mobile registration initiatives and community engagement.
The second day focused on disability inclusion, with Acting Director for Disability Affairs Ms Laiza Chourombo presenting an overview of Government programmes and policies aimed at promoting the inclusion of children with disabilities.
Delegates discussed ways of ensuring equal access to education, healthcare and social services while addressing challenges that continue to limit opportunities for children living with disabilities.
On the third day, discussions centred on Early Childhood Development, with experts emphasising the importance of the first 1 000 days of a child’s life in shaping health, nutrition, education, behaviour and overall social wellbeing.
A panel discussion examined current interventions, programmes and policies designed to safeguard children’s health, education and social protection while ensuring that every child, including those with disabilities, has a strong foundation for future development.
As the conference concludes today, stakeholders are expected to consolidate recommendations aimed at strengthening child protection systems and advancing the rights and welfare of children in Zimbabwe.
