Source: Residents, rights groups demand action against KwaTafi bar for endangering kids – herald
Theseus Shambare
Herald Reporter
RESIDENTS of Epworth and child rights groups have raised alarm over KwaTafi Bar, accused of serving alcohol to minors and exposing children to drug abuse and exploitation.
The concern follows the case of a 15-year-old boy, Tatenda (name withheld), who was found at the bar drinking and socialising with adults after fleeing from home.
Police recovered US$1 100 from him, which was part of the money he allegedly stole from his grandfather, but later released him into family custody since he is a minor.
Community members say Tatenda’s case highlights a growing crisis of juvenile delinquency in Epworth, fuelled by poverty, weak supervision and poor law enforcement.
Springs of Life Zimbabwe (SLZ) programmes coordinator Ms Precious Msindo said KwaTafi has become a hotspot for underage drinking.
“Every weekend, the place is filled with children as young as 14,” she said.
“Any efforts to engage the owners have been futile. They claim they cannot police who enters, yet they are breaking the law.”
She said SLZ recently launched the “Mwene weBhawa Ngaasungwe” (“The Bar Owner Must Be Arrested”) campaign to push accountability among bar operators, distributing “No Under 18” posters across Epworth, Seke and Bindura.
“It is not just about alcohol. These spaces expose minors to drugs, sexual grooming and violence,” Ms Msindo said.
Shamwari Yemwanasikana director Ms Ekenia Chifamba said communities are normalising children in adult spaces.
“It is disturbing that bars have become playgrounds for children. Protecting children is everyone’s duty, not just for the police or social workers,” she said.
Signs of Hope Trust director Ms Samantha Sibanda called for stronger enforcement.
“Section 81 of the Constitution protects every child from harmful environments. Allowing minors into bars violates that right. We want arrests and licence cancellations for repeat offenders,” she said.
Youth advocate Mr Rey Dongonda, who works with at-risk teens in Epworth, said lack of youth activities is worsening the problem.
“Many young people have nowhere safe to spend their evenings. If we had functional youth centres, sports programmes or skills hubs, the bars would not be their escape. The community must invest in its youth,” he said.
On Sunday night, police conducted raids at KwaTafi Bar, much to the relief of some residents.
While the operations were welcomed, community members expressed concern that the enforcement appeared indiscriminate.
“We are glad to see the police taking action, but the focus should be on those breaking the law, not punishing those who are allowed to be there,” said Grace Tembo, a mother of three living near the bar.
Msindo echoed the sentiment, calling for sustained and targeted enforcement.
“Raids are important, but they must be consistent and aimed at the violators—owners who knowingly allow children into these spaces,” she said.
Dongonda added that while police interventions are necessary, long-term solutions are crucial.
“Nightly raids may provide temporary relief, but without safe recreational spaces and structured youth programmes, children will continue to seek refuge in bars,” he said.
Residents near Zinyengere cemeteries, where KwaTafi is located, echoed the concerns.
“It is about time someone spoke up. We see schoolchildren drinking here every day after classes,” said Tembo.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Permanent Secretary Mr Simon Masanga said Tatenda’s case reflects a breakdown in family and community protection systems.
“Protecting children is a collective effort, everyone has a role to play. There are some obstacles we face from time to time but we try to ensure that children are protected while we enforce the law. When parents refuse to cooperate, our hands are tied, but if we do nothing, the child becomes more entrenched in delinquency,” he said.
As calls for accountability mount, Epworth residents say KwaTafi has become a symbol of social decay — where children lose direction and adults look away.
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