Peter Matika [email protected]
ZAMBIAN child rights campaigner Mr Mate Subulwa arrived in Bulawayo on Sunday afternoon after walking an incredible 2 224 kilometres across three countries to raise awareness against child abuse, defilement and sexual exploitation.
Mr Subulwa, an athlete and child rights advocate, began his Pan-African awareness walk in Livingstone, Zambia, on August 5, travelling through South Africa and Botswana before arriving in Zimbabwe.
Campaigning under the banner “Africa Together, We Knock Out Child Abuse”, with the message “Every Child Matters”, he hopes to encourage communities across the continent to stand together in protecting children.
His journey is aimed at giving vulnerable children a voice and encouraging families, communities and authorities to take a stand against abuse.
“Despite the long distances and scorching temperatures, I am committed to my mission, to use my walks to reach communities and raise awareness about the need to protect children,” he said.
He is expected to spend at least a day in Bulawayo at a local lodge sponsored by Bulawayo businessman Mr Byron Rice, resting before continuing with his campaign.
Mr Subulwa is not new to long-distance awareness walks, having previously travelled hundreds of kilometres across several Zambian provinces, including Southern, Lusaka, Copperbelt, North-Western and Western provinces.
“My latest journey has my campaign beyond Zambia, bringing the message of child protection to communities in different countries. Through this initiative, I am encouraging people to speak out against child abuse, report cases and support victims, particularly children who often suffer in silence because of fear and intimidation,” he said.
Mr Subulwa’s said his campaign also highlights the importance of educating communities about child sexual exploitation and ensuring that children grow up in safe environments.
With nothing but a backpack and paltry supplies, Mr Subulwa relies on community support, roadside encouragement and public donations through mobile money platforms to sustain his long-distance journeys.
