Zimbabwe Unites Against Human Trafficking: A Call to Action

By Tendai Chisiri

Zimbabwe joined the global community in commemorating the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed annually on July 30.

This year’s theme, “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime – Stop the Exploitation,” highlights the urgent need to address this heinous crime.

According to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, “Human trafficking continues to pose a serious global challenge. No country is immune, and Zimbabwe is not spared, it serves as a source, transit and destination country for victims of trafficking.”

The ministry emphasized that human trafficking affects people across all social classes, with women and children being the most vulnerable. Zimbabwean victims are often lured into exploitative labor in sectors such as agriculture, construction, information technology, and hospitality.

Key Statistics:

• 27 million people worldwide are currently victims of trafficking for labor and commercial sex, according to United Nations estimates.
• Human trafficking leaves deep psychological and physical scars on victims, often lasting well into adulthood.

Government’s Response:

The Government of Zimbabwe remains committed to eliminating human trafficking. Efforts include¹ ²:

• Strengthening Protection: Strengthening protection and child-sensitive justice systems.
• Awareness and Support: Raising awareness at national and community levels, supporting survivors to rebuild their lives, and providing care and protection for unaccompanied children.
• Legislation: Domesticating the Palermo Protocol through the enactment of the Trafficking in Persons Act (Chapter 9:25) in 2014.
• National Plan: Developing the National Plan of Action Against Trafficking in Persons (NAPLAC) 2023-2028, based on the 4 Ps framework: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnerships.

Call to Action:

As Zimbabweans observe this significant day, they are called upon to:

• Prevent Trafficking: Prevent trafficking and protect victims.
• Prosecute Perpetrators: Prosecute perpetrators and strengthen community partnerships.
• Join Hands: Communities, traditional leaders, law enforcement, and civil society must join hands to send a clear message: Trafficking in Persons has no place in Zimbabwe.