29/05/2026
Govt Calls for Action on Family Inequalities, Child Wellbeing
LUPANE – Government has called for intensified efforts to address family inequalities and safeguard child wellbeing, amid growing concerns over poverty, unemployment, drug and substance abuse, and climate-induced vulnerabilities affecting families across the country.
Speaking at the 2026 International Day of Families National Commemorations and the Matabeleland North Business Expo in Lupane on Thursday, the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, said family inequalities continue to undermine children's welfare and development.The commemorations were held under the theme “Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing.”
Hon. Mutsvangwa said inequalities in access to education, healthcare, food security, shelter and economic opportunities expose children to risks such as school dropouts, child labour, child marriages, substance abuse and poor health outcomes.
She said the Second Republic, under the leadership of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, remains committed to improving the welfare of families through inclusive socio-economic development programmes anchored on Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.
Hon. Mutsvangwa expressed concern over the rising cases of drug and substance abuse, describing the scourge as a major threat to family stability and child wellbeing.She urged parents and communities to play a more active role in protecting children and youths from the dangers associated with substance abuse while promoting strong family values.
Hon. Mutsvangwa further stressed the need to promote social inclusion and equal opportunities for all children regardless of gender, disability, social status or geographical location.
Turning to economic development, the Minister commended the contribution of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and cooperatives to the national economy, noting that the sector employs more than 70 percent of Zimbabwe's workforce and contributes over 60 percent to Gross Domestic Product.
She said the Matabeleland North Business Expo provides a platform for MSMEs to create business linkages, market their products and network with key stakeholders.
Hon. Mutsvangwa encouraged entrepreneurs to improve product quality, packaging and labelling in preparation for regional and international export markets, including opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In his welcome remarks, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North Province, Hon. Richard Moyo, commended the Ministry for selecting the province to host the national commemorations, saying the event provided an important platform for dialogue on strengthening families and building productive communities.
Representatives from various Government ministries and organisations also underscored the importance of family wellbeing in national development.
Ministry of Health and Child Care representative Mr Bright Sibanda said healthy families form the foundation of healthy communities and a healthy nation, while Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education representative Mr Lovemore Ncube described families as the first institutions where children learn values, respect and culture.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare representative Ms Priscilla Chaparira highlighted Government support programmes such as the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), which continue to assist vulnerable children and strengthen households.
Chief Mabhikwa Khumalo also called for increased protection of children from child marriages, gender-based violence and drug abuse, while advocating for expanded vocational training opportunities for young people in the province.
In moving the vote of thanks, President of the Council of Chiefs Chief Lucas Mtshane Khumalo said strong families remain central to community development and nation-building.The event concluded with Hon. Mutsvangwa officially launching the 2026 International Day of Families National Commemorations and the Matabeleland North Business Expo.
