Major Highlights
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ALARMY
RELIGION VS CHILD RIGHTS
Some religious practices by certain apostolic sects have infringed on human rights. Women and young
girls found themselves vulnerable to some religious customs and beliefs. In Manicaland, an apostolic
church sect prophetess was accused of violating children's rights and their right to education. The
incident happened September 22, in the Nyanyadzi area, Makotamo 1 village ward 8 of Chimanimani West.
It is alleged that Prophetess Gracious of an apostolic sect led by Prophet End took minors from their
families during a church service and led them to a prayer mountain where she spent several days with
them claiming she was teaching them the doctrine of the church. Reports indicate that three minors spent
some time not attending school while held hostage by the Prophetess at the prayer mountain. The
incident reportedly left many community members concerned since the minors were being denied their
right to education.
FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL?
Access to education must be prioritized to accelerate progress toward all the Sustainable Development
Goals and the government of Zimbabwe’s ‘Vision 2030’ agenda. In Zimbabwe, education is a fundamental
constitutional right that should be guaranteed to every citizen regardless of gender, ethnicity, colour, race,
disability, or creed. The UN2030 Agenda sustainable development goal number 4 advocates for inclusive
and equitable quality education which promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all and is in line with the
national legislative framework in Zimbabwe. Section 75 of the Zimbabwe Constitution says, ‘every citizen
and permanent resident of Zimbabwe has a right to – (a) basic State-funded education, including adult
basic education.
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