By Dumisani Ndlovu
Zimbabwe Child President, Neville Mavu has condemned sheebens and alcohol outlets owners who facilitate consumption of alcohol by children, and demanded for retributive action from the authorities.
He was reacting to videos of minors aged below 12 and 15 allegedly drinking alcohol in Harare and other cities over Christmas, and New Year. Mavu was deeply worried over the incident.
“I am gravely concerned that should this video be true, not only would it be factual that the video source is an adult, but that the children, who appear to be no more than 12 years old, acquired the alcohol from an adult, were consuming it on premises owned by adults and in the presence of more adults and the community.
It is illegal for children to acquire and consume alcohol in Zimbabwe,” he said.“This irresponsible behaviour not only violates the law, but also poses serious risks to the health and well-being of these vulnerable children.
This therefore begs the question how this could happen in the public eye.
“It is a distressing and disheartening matter that calls for urgent attention and action from all stakeholders.
Furthermore, as a child it is troubling that children are purchasing and consuming alcohol despite being aware that it is unlawful and detrimental to their health and welfare.
”Mavu said the incident points to possible breach of child protection, drug and alcohol policies and legislation that must be addressed by the relevant authorities with urgency and a broader issue of awareness and education about the dangers of alcohol consumption, especially at a young age from the family and educational institutions.
The Child President said he was aware that the police had taken a keen interest in the matter and made some progress in investigating the incident and expressed appreciation to the government for its unwavering commitment to protecting the welfare of children.
“I equally call the following entities to urgent action; the Children’s Welfare Council to take a keen interest on this matter, the Liquor Licensing Board to ascertain the responsible entities that must have been involved in the distribution and accommodating the children during their drinking spree, and the community leadership as well as any other concerned citizens to take decisive steps towards identifying and bringing this matter to its reasonable and responsible end,” he said.“
Their efforts are crucial to bringing those responsible to account for enabling underage drinking and ensuring that the law is upheld.
In so doing it is important to remember that some children are also being subjected to exploitation and abuse by being forced and or groomed to commit illegal acts including drinking alcohol and taking drugs.”
Mavu reiterated that the incident also underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect and support vulnerable children who are at risk of harm or neglect and urged parents, guardians, educators, and the community to join hands in safeguarding children from harmful influences and providing them with the care, guidance, and protection they deserve.
He said: “Let us support each other in this fight against drug and substance abuse not forgetting that ‘it takes the whole community to raise a child”.
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