Review and Mail Writer
Government has warned private entities and individuals to refrain from parading children who are in need of care and protection on any digital or print platforms as it is serious violation of their privacy and undermines their right to protection.
In a statement, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare raised concern over the rise of sexual abuse cases and teenage pregnancies across the country and said it is working in collaboration with other government line ministries and PVOs in the child protection sector to enhance the prevention of abuse, early identification and timely response.
“The ministry would like to appreciate the role played by PVOs and individuals in the identification of child protection violations in the communities and subsequent referral to statutory entities for case management. However, is has been noted that some children are being paraded on social media in violation of their right to privacy and confidentiality,” read the statement.
“The Ministry does not condone such practices. Parading children in need of care and protection on any gatherings and publishing information leading to the identification of a child in need of care and protection on any digital or print platform is a serious violation of their privacy and it undermines their right to protection. It causes trauma, complicates recovery and discourages future disclosure of abuse.
“Interviewing children and reporting their issues must be done in a way that serves public interest, without compromising their right to privacy and confidentiality. The best interest of the child is of paramount importance and due consideration must be regarded at all times.”
The ministry further called on all citizens to report all cases of abuse to the responsible authorities or the police.
“The Ministry wishes to advise private entities and individuals to exercise caution and act in a manner that does not endanger the lives of children. The Ministry further urges the nation to report all cases of any form of actual and suspected abuse to the nearest Department of Social Development Office or Police station.”
Cases of rape, early child marriages and other forms of abuse have been on the rise recently across different communities in the country and many non-governmental organisations and individuals have been calling for the need to raise awareness and increase assistance to the survivors of sexual abuse.
