Obey Sibanda, Features Reporter
IN the city’s hive of activity, where laughter and gossip fill the air, another story often goes unnoticed. Amid the throngs of pedestrians, a small child navigates the busy streets, clutching a worn begging bowl while leaving behind her blind mother. With wide, hopeful eyes, this child embodies innocence amid harsh realities.
This heart-wrenching scene tells a story of struggle, resilience, and the quest for compassion.
Every day, countless children with blind parents are forced to abandon their dreams of education and a better future. The sound of school bells is drowned out by the noise of traffic and the hustle of daily life, leaving many children absent from classrooms where they belong and violating their right to education.
The right to education is enshrined in the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which guarantees that every citizen, particularly children, has access to schooling. This fundamental right is central to the development and wellbeing of individuals and society at large.
Last week, the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC), alongside civil society partners and human rights defenders, gathered to commemorate Africa Human Rights Day (AHRD). The commemorations, held under the continental theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” highlighted not only Africa’s long struggle for freedom and justice but also the rights of children.
During the event, Takunda Mandura, Communications Officer for Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ), emphasised the violation of the right to education. “When money meant for school development is stolen, that corruption directly infringes on people’s human rights. If a child is denied education because funds were diverted, that is a violation of the right to education,” Mandura stated.
Recent studies reveal that over 150 million children worldwide are engaged in begging, often due to dire economic circumstances. Instead of receiving an education, these children spend their days on the streets, vulnerable and exposed.
Trainer and founder of Gateway to Elation, a Bulawayo-based organisation, Mr Robert Malunda believes poverty is a key factor driving begging, particularly among individuals with visual impairments who face unemployment. He urges the government to take proactive measures in employing people with visual impairments.
“While the government currently serves as the largest employer for people with visual impairment, there is a pressing need for policies that not only support but also encourage the private sector to hire individuals with disabilities. We have shown our capabilities and commitment when given opportunities. Unfortunately, the cycle of poverty continues to drive many of us into begging, adversely affecting our children’s rights,” said Malunda.
Rather than attending school, playing, and forming friendships, these children are relegated to the streets, where their worth is measured by the money they can bring in.
“I never wanted my child to experience this,” lamented one mother with visual impairment. “But what choice do I have? I tell myself it’s for their future, but I know deep down it’s wrong. This robs children of their childhood.”
The emotional toll on these young lives is profound. They miss not only education but also essential social experiences that contribute to development. “I just want to go to school like my friends,” shared a young girl named Rudo, her voice barely above a whisper. “But my mother says we need the money more than I need to learn.”
For children engaged in begging, the consequences are far-reaching. Exposure to harsh weather, poor nutrition, and the constant threat of violence or exploitation creates an environment where survival takes precedence over wellbeing.
Psychologist Mrs Barbara Ncube highlighted that the psychological effects are equally devastating. Children who grow up begging may experience shame, low self-worth, and hopelessness.
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