The Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Mary Navicha, has expressed concern over the increasing number of children being found begging on the streets of the country’s cities.
Navicha said it is unfortunate that nearly half of these children have parents, and that some of the parents are the ones sending them out to beg.
The Minister made these remarks today during commemorations of the International Day of Families and the day dedicated to children who live and spend time on the streets. The event was held at Lunzu Primary School playground in Blantyre District.
The Minister also condemned the growing cases of violence against children in the country, including sexual abuse and the use of harsh physical punishment when children make mistakes.
Speaking at the event, Senior Chief Kapeni of Blantyre criticized the behavior of some fathers who continue to have many children without providing them with proper care and support.
The chief said this practice is contributing to the suffering of many children in the country, including those who are found sleeping, roaming, and begging on the streets of urban centers.
The event was organized by YONECO in collaboration with the government and other organizations, including Project Hope Namibia, SOS Children’s Villages, YODEP, and others.
The commemoration was held under the theme:”Family Inequalities and Child Well-being.”
