President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially signed the Criminal Laws Amendment (Protection of Children and Young Persons) Act, 2024, making sexual relations with individuals below the age of 18 a criminal offense. This significant legislative change was announced by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya, in an Extraordinary Government Gazette issued on Tuesday.
Passed by Parliament in July, the new law aims to enhance the protection of children and young people from sexual exploitation and abuse. This move comes in response to increasing concerns over rising incidents of child abuse in the country.
The Act is designed to provide a stronger legal framework for prosecuting offenders and deterring potential abusers, reflecting the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of minors. With the implementation of this law, authorities hope to strengthen efforts in protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring a safer environment for children across Zimbabwe.
In other news – Harare motorist charged with kidnapping and inciting violence
A 23-year-old Harare motorist, Gift Nyadzawo, appeared in court on Tuesday facing serious charges, including kidnapping two City Parking officers and inciting public violence. He was remanded in custody by magistrate Patricia Kamwanda, with a bail ruling expected on Wednesday.
Prosecutor Zebediah Bofu informed the court that Nyadzawo was arrested on September 12 after he parked in a prohibited area. Read More
