Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in Gaborone, Botswana
ZIMBABWE remains unwavering in its commitment to placing children at the heart of a global response to their needs as this is essential for achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes, Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
Speaking at the Sub-Regional World Children’s Day Commemorations in Gaborone in Botswana, where regional leaders gathered to exchange ideas and strategies for realising children’s aspirations, VP Chiwenga emphasised Zimbabwe’s dedication to children’s rights and development.
The Zimbabwean delegation outlined current initiatives and future plans, earning praise from their regional counterparts.
“This commemoration reaffirms our shared duty to protect and empower our children — the heartbeat of Africa’s future,” VP Chiwenga stated.
“Placing children at the centre of our dialogue demonstrates our genuine intent to listen, learn and act on their aspirations. We have heard their voices through the Children’s Consultative Forum.”
He further highlighted Zimbabwe’s efforts to translate these aspirations into tangible outcomes.
“Their priorities — inclusion, dignity and resilience — align with our regional goals. Zimbabwe is committed to transforming these aspirations into real change,” he added.
On a national level, VP Chiwenga noted that Zimbabwe is investing in child-centred policies, such as the Heritage-Based 5.0 Curriculum, which equips learners with innovation-driven skills.
He also mentioned programmes like home-grown school feeding, initiatives to keep girls in school and school health and wellness programmes that aim to ensure no child is left behind.
“Zimbabwe remains vigilant against emerging threats — climate change, trafficking, substance abuse and online harm,” he said.
“We have launched a comprehensive multi-sectoral response to drug and substance abuse and established psycho-social support centres nationwide.”
Zimbabwe’s Child President, Lionel Mazarire, expressed pride in his country’s progress in advancing children’s rights.
“Zimbabwe is leading the way in ensuring equality in education, providing children from both urban and rural areas with equal learning opportunities,” he said.
He also shared insights from regional interactions, noting, “Zimbabwe is an example of protecting children’s rights. We have learned much about different cultures and above all, we understand that discipline is irreplaceable.”
Children from Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa united to call for an end to violence, poverty and high school dropout rates. They demanded guaranteed access to nutrition, menstrual products, sanitation and inclusive education with specially trained teachers for learners with disabilities.
This year’s theme, “My Day, My Rights,” challenges Governments and global leaders to go beyond promises and deliver tangible change. Although officially commemorated on 20 November, the SADC regional celebration was held five days earlier, to facilitate maximum participation and logistical convenience.
Last year, Zimbabwe hosted the event in Victoria Falls. Next year, Lesotho will host the regional celebrations.
Lesotho Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane emphasised society’s vital role in safeguarding children’s rights and prioritizing their welfare while Namibia’s Vice President Lucia Witbooi highlighted the need for increased resources to prepare children for the future and stressed that their views should influence policy decisions.
