Cultural practices and ignorance impede birth registration for children in Zimbabwe
via NewsDay Zimbabwe8 min read
In Zimbabwe, cultural norms and a lack of awareness often complicate birth registration for children, particularly after the death of one or both parents. While birth registration is a child's legal right, ensuring access to education, healthcare, and inheritance, various social dynamics create significant barriers. These include paternal families asserting authority over children, the deliberate withholding of deceased parents' death certificates as leverage in family disputes, and the demand for lobola bride price or mombe yechiredzwa from children before their identities are recognized. Additionally, demands for compensation kuripwa for perceived wrongs by the deceased parent can prevent cooperation from extended family members. These practices, rooted in cultural frameworks, often undermine children's rights by making them legally invisible. The article highlights the need for flexible civil registration systems, clear protocols for orphaned children, and stronger enforcement of birth registration laws to overcome these challenges and ensure every child's right to identity.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe has experienced a notable increase in value-added exports, contributing to a reduction in the country's trade deficit. This positive economic indicator suggests a shift towards more sophisticated export products and improved trade balances. The development aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Zimbabwe's economic standing and foster sustainable growth through enhanced export performance.
Must ReadZimbabwe is currently experiencing a significant shortage of midwives, a situation that poses challenges to the country's healthcare system. This issue is highlighted amidst other national concerns, including economic developments, political tensions, and various sector-specific challenges. The shortage of midwives is a critical concern that impacts the provision of essential healthcare services.
Must ReadZimbabwe is experiencing a range of developments across various sectors. The nation is pursuing a US$650 million investment vision, reinforcing confidence in its long-term growth potential, and has initiated efforts for a US$25 million climate recovery boost. Value-added exports are surging, contributing to a narrowing trade deficit. In infrastructure, councillors are advocating for the immediate implementation of the Glassblock Dam project. The insurance industry is working to address a trust deficit, with Tsuro emphasizing that insurance relies on trust to honor future claims. FBC Holdings has achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification. In the mining sector, Rukweza has been appointed chair of the Lithium Association of Zimbabwe, highlighting the country's strategic focus on lithium. However, challenges persist, including critical shortages of midwives and power outages and raw material shortages impacting ART operations, leading to declines in export and paper division volumes. On the sporting front, over 300 girls are participating in women's football development, though Zimbabwe Cricket's developmental pathways face significant challenges. Political tensions are also noted, with violent attacks and forced evictions occurring at grasslands plots.