No excuse for child abuse

I write this letter out of frustration at the lack of an established national child sexual prevention program in this country.

While I am not pointing any finger at any individual, entity, government, or organisation, the need for such a programme is long overdue. As a country, just recently, we have witnessed two cases, that of a nine-year girl from Masekesa village in Tsholotsho who gave birth to a baby boy after having been allegedly raped by a close relative, while another nine-year old-girl from Bindura is reported to be six months pregnant after being raped by two 17-year-old brothers. This is disheartening to see the rate of abuse being faced by these minors.

This fight is not only about today’s children, but the future generation.

It is about protecting all children. It is about safeguarding families. And building more healthier communities where all children can thrive.

We must continue the fight for justice for these girls. We cannot rest on our laurels.

The welfare of our children in this country is paramount. And the impact of unresolved childhood traumas, brokenness, and despair is insurmountable. We need everyone on board in this fight.

Today I stand with every advocate who came before me and stand beside those who continue to fight. I know this is a difficult topic to discuss and extremely sensitive in nature. But, if not now when?

Disgruntled