DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has vowed to intensify efforts to eliminate all forms of child abuse in the country by collaborating closely with communities and child development stakeholders to implement policies that prioritise the welfare and protection of children.
Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, Dr Franklin Rwezimula, made this statement while receiving a peaceful procession organised by the Women Network of the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) in collaboration with the Ministry, held in Dar es Salaam recently.
Dr Rwezimula underlined the government’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for children’s development in various sectors, including education, health and social welfare.
“Our government recognises and values the rights of children of all ages, which is why, we are implementing the National Multi-Sectoral Early Childhood Development Programme (NM-ECDP) starting in 2022 to ensure the development of children in the country,” he said.
He also noted the government’s adherence to international conventions on children’s rights, including the 1989 UN Convention that condemns all forms of child exploitation. However, he noted that achieving these goals requires support from parents, guardians and the broader community.
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“It is disheartening that some individuals fail to report acts of abuse against children. Additionally, there is a reluctance to provide evidence in court when needed, which hampers the government’s efforts to protect children,” he said.
Dr Rwezimula outlined strategies to strengthen child protection and development, including closer collaboration with stakeholders, training more individuals on child rights, increasing the budget for these initiatives and raising awareness in communities.
Deputy President of TLS, Ms Leticia Ntagazwa said that the demonstrations were complemented by legal support provided through the Mama Samia Legal Aid Programme, aimed at bolstering the government’s efforts in protecting children.
She commended the government for its willingness to work with various stakeholders to implement policies that ensure child safety but acknowledged that much work remains to address the rising incidents of abuse, as highlighted in police reports.
The event was attended by Mr Isaac Mudo, representing the Ilala District Commissioner, TLS President Mr Boniface Mwabukusi, government officials, representatives from the Tanzania Women Judges’ Association (TAWJA) and residents of Dar es Salaam and surrounding areas, as well as representatives from various political parties and non-governmental organisations, including the Tanzania Widows Association (TAWIA), Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) and Tanzania Gender Networking Programme (TGNP).