By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
In a decisive move to combat the growing issue of child sexual abuse in Zimbabwe, the police have issued a strong warning to parents and relatives who conceal or assist offenders, threatening them with arrest.
This warning comes amid an alarming rise in child sexual abuse cases, many of which involve perpetrators who are trusted family members.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has voiced serious concerns over a troubling trend where some parents protect or shield the abusers, enabling a continued cycle of silence and suffering.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi expressed his deep concern, saying, “It is deeply disturbing that some of these perpetrators are people entrusted to provide a safe and nurturing environment for these children. Instead, they are abusing the trust placed in them.”
Nyathi sent a clear message to the public, stating that those who cover up these crimes will face legal consequences. “Parents and relatives who hide these cases of sexual abuse will be arrested for obstructing justice,” Comm Nyathi warned.
The ZRP is urging the public to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting any suspicions of child abuse. “We urge the community to step forward and work with the police in the fight against child sexual abuse. Protecting our children is a collective responsibility,” he emphasized.
The call for community action extends beyond law enforcement, with traditional leaders and religious organizations being encouraged to collaborate on awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about the signs of abuse and the importance of reporting incidents.
In a stark reminder of the urgency of this issue, the ZRP is currently investigating the cases of a 13-year-old girl in Murewa and a 14-year-old girl in Lusulu, both victims of sexual assault by close relatives. These incidents highlight the critical need for a cultural shift in how communities respond to allegations of abuse.
As Zimbabwe confronts this pressing crisis, the message is clear: child protection is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement—it is the duty of every member of society.
The hope is that heightened awareness and accountability will lead to a safer environment for the country’s most vulnerable—its children.
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