Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. The government, through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, has urged parents, guardians and caregivers to adopt positive parenting approaches that build trust, resilience and healthy development in children.
The call follows the circulation of a disturbing viral video showing a child being beaten while wrapped in a sack in Guruve.
On Thursday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrest of Justin Changa (55) of Mizika Village under Chief Chipuririro, Guruve, along with his alleged accomplice, Blessed Changa (28), in connection with the incident.
Police said the 17-year-old victim is Changa’s daughter, who was allegedly assaulted after being accused of promiscuous behaviour and abandoning her child at a local lodge.
In a statement issued on Friday, 3 January 2026, the Permanent Secretary for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Simon Masanga, strongly condemned all forms of violence against children and called for responsible, non-violent parenting. He said:
“As the custodian of child welfare and protection, the Ministry reiterates that no form of abuse or violence against children is acceptable under any circumstances.
“Discipline must never take the form of physical or emotional harm. Children, even when they may be perceived as ‘naughty,’ deserve guidance, care and constructive correction rooted in dignity and respect.”
Masanga said the ministry is working closely with the police to investigate the incident and hold those responsible to account. He added:
“At the same time, the Ministry is providing psycho-social support to the affected child to help her recover from the trauma and restore her well-being.
“We call upon all parents, guardians and caregivers to embrace positive parenting methods that foster trust, resilience and healthy development.
“Violence only perpetuates trauma and undermines the well-being of our children—the future of our nation.
“The Ministry urges all citizens to report any cases of child abuse immediately to your nearest Social Welfare Office or Police Station.”
Masanga also warned the public against recording and sharing videos of violence against children, saying it not only perpetuates such abuse but also deepens the victims’ trauma, as the internet never forgets.
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