Young single mothers have appealed to the newly elected lawmakers to help them acquire child support grants to help raise their children in difficult economic circumstances. This comes after the country’s deteriorating economic situation and rampant price hikes which have made living conditions harsh and unfavourable for almost everyone. Zimbabwe has implemented several policies on child protection, and it’s now time to stretch the hands further and provide child support grants for the upkeep and development of children in the worsening economic situation.
One young single mother, Buhlebenkosi Mpala, said she struggled to raise her three children since her husband walked out on them four years ago. She revealed that the profit from vending is not enough to sustain her and the children, considering she has to pay rent, school fees and groceries on her own. She called upon lawmakers to collaborate despite political affiliations to reflect on this child support grant appeal.
Another young single mother, Nyasha Moyo, said she works as a house help, and her salary is not enough for her and the kids. She lamented that she would appreciate a child grant support from the government. She revealed that her husband died two years ago and left her with two children; life has been difficult. However, women in Zimbabwe have limited influence on politics to help improve the situation of women because they hold 11% of seats in the Parliament.
WRITTEN BY SHAMISO NCUBE