Breakthrough as fathers get equal custodial rights as mothers

President Emmerson Mnangagwa's cabinet has approved principles that seek to amend the Constitution to give equal rights between mothers and fathers.  

In a statement on Wednesday the Ministry of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services said, "Cabinet yesterday passed principles on the proposed amendments to the Guardianship of Minors Act, 2014 to align it to the new Constitution. The new law will confer equal rights on mothers and fathers. The current law favours mothers in regard to the custody of children."

The Ministry added that the Act will also be aligned to the Constitution which sets 18 years as the age of consent to marriage.

The current Act appears to promote child marriages. It will also be amended to highlight that the child's rights are paramount in every matter concerning the child.

Mnangagwa's government has however been criticised for being vocal on alignment of laws and passing cabinet princes but having zero action when it comes to the amendment or repealing of laws that are inconsistent with the constitution.