The Government has renewed its commitment to safeguarding children’s rights as it moves to strengthen child protection systems in response to growing risks, including online abuse, exploitation and violence.
The renewed push was highlighted at the National Child Protection Conference underway in Bulawayo, where Government officials, development partners, children’s rights organisations, private sector players and other stakeholders are meeting to map strategies for stronger protection mechanisms.
Officially opening the conference, running from 7 to 10 July, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Edgar Moyo said the gathering was a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment.
“The National Child Protection Conference is more than a gathering; it is a solemn call to action,” Minister Moyo said.
He said Government’s child protection agenda was guided by the five pillars of the National Action Plan for Children, which focus on expanding access to inclusive social services, ending violence against children, strengthening families and communities, eliminating child labour and building resilient institutions.
“We stand united in our resolve. We will mobilise resources, knowledge and partnerships so that no child in Zimbabwe is left unprotected, unsupported or unheard,” he said.
The conference comes as Zimbabwe confronts persistent child protection challenges, with statistics showing that 64 percent of children experience violent discipline, while birth registration gaps continue to affect thousands of children.
Child marriage remains another concern, with 21,2 percent of adolescent girls aged between 15 and 18 years affected. Emerging challenges linked to technology, migration, economic pressures and climate change have also added new dimensions to child protection efforts.
Minister Moyo said Government had made progress over the past decade through strengthening the National Case Management System for the Protection and Welfare of Children, expanding the Victim Friendly System and introducing policy reforms aimed at improving child welfare.
Sweden’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Per Lindgärde, said while progress had been recorded, continued collaboration was needed to address evolving threats facing children.
“Every child has the right to grow up safe, protected and free from violence, exploitation and neglect,” he said.
UNICEF Representative in Zimbabwe, Etona Ekole, said protecting children required long-term investment and cooperation among different sectors.
“Protecting children requires strong systems, sustained investment and coordinated action across sectors,” she said.
The conference is expected to produce a National Child Protection Outcome Statement, financing commitments and a roadmap to guide implementation of child protection interventions.
The meeting also comes as Government implements the National Action Plan for Children 2026-2030 and the Zimbabwe National Child Online Protection Policy 2026-2030, which are aimed at strengthening safeguards for children in both physical and digital spaces.
