Zimbabwe cabinet has approved a groundbreaking national policy aimed at ensuring the welfare and rights of children without parental care. Spearheaded by Honourable Vice President K.C.D. Mohadi, the policy emphasizes the creation of safe, nurturing environments for vulnerable children across the nation.
At the heart of the policy lies a commitment to fostering the holistic development of all children, regardless of their circumstances. It addresses the diverse needs of children without parental care, including those with disabilities, involved in conflict with the law, rescued from the streets, survivors of substance abuse, and those under formal and informal alternative care arrangements.
A key aspect of the policy is the establishment of minimum standards for alternative care, ensuring that children’s needs are thoroughly assessed and addressed through detailed placement care plans. These plans outline precisely how each child’s needs will be met, providing a framework for their comprehensive well-being.
“The National Policy for the Care and Protection of Children without Parental Care outlines minimum standards for alternative care including the following: that children should have their needs assessed comprehensively, with written placement care plans which outline how the needs will be met,” read the post cabinet briefings yesterday.
Crucially, the policy advocates for regular reviews to monitor children’s development and adjust care plans accordingly. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining meaningful connections with children’s families and support networks, as well as facilitating smooth transitions into adulthood.
Implementation of the policy will adopt a Whole-of-Government Approach, ensuring coordination and collaboration across various sectors to safeguard children’s rights effectively. Non-State actors will also contribute by providing specialized services aligned with their mandates, enhancing the reach and impact of the policy.
This landmark policy signifies Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the well-being of children without parental care, paving the way for a brighter, more secure future for the nation’s youth.
