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Zimbabwe considers launching National Sex Offenders Register
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Zimbabwe is exploring the creation of a National Sex Offenders Register to monitor individuals convicted of sexual offenses, a move aimed at enhancing justice and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.
Speaking at a meeting on the feasibility of the initiative, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs. Vimbai Nyemba, emphasized the importance of the register as a cornerstone of justice and child protection systems.
"Zimbabwe, like many other countries, has faced increasing concerns over the alarming rates of sexual violence, especially against women and children," said Mrs. Nyemba.
Mrs. Nyemba highlighted the dual role of the justice system in being both punitive and preventive.
"As the Government, we have a duty to ensure that our justice system not only holds offenders accountable but also prevents future exploitation and abuse. This initiative is critical in safeguarding those at risk," she said.
The proposed register would serve as a centralized database to identify, monitor, and track individuals convicted of sexual offenses, helping authorities and communities take proactive measures to reduce risks.
Mrs. Nyemba underscored the initiative's alignment with Vision 2030, Zimbabwe's strategic plan to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030.
"At the heart of Vision 2030 is a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development that uplifts all citizens, regardless of their circumstances. A comprehensive National Sex Offenders Register is a significant step toward protecting our most vulnerable members of society," she said.
The feasibility meeting was attended by stakeholders, including Mr. Rex Shana, Vice President of the Law Development Commission, who noted that establishing such a register would require a robust legal framework and collaboration among various agencies.
While the concept has been met with general support, stakeholders are working on determining the legal, logistical, and ethical considerations for implementing the register. Public consultations and policy reviews are expected in the coming months to finalize the framework.
The move reflects Zimbabwe's broader commitment to strengthening its justice system and ensuring a safer society for all.
Speaking at a meeting on the feasibility of the initiative, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mrs. Vimbai Nyemba, emphasized the importance of the register as a cornerstone of justice and child protection systems.
"Zimbabwe, like many other countries, has faced increasing concerns over the alarming rates of sexual violence, especially against women and children," said Mrs. Nyemba.
Mrs. Nyemba highlighted the dual role of the justice system in being both punitive and preventive.
"As the Government, we have a duty to ensure that our justice system not only holds offenders accountable but also prevents future exploitation and abuse. This initiative is critical in safeguarding those at risk," she said.
Mrs. Nyemba underscored the initiative's alignment with Vision 2030, Zimbabwe's strategic plan to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030.
"At the heart of Vision 2030 is a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development that uplifts all citizens, regardless of their circumstances. A comprehensive National Sex Offenders Register is a significant step toward protecting our most vulnerable members of society," she said.
The feasibility meeting was attended by stakeholders, including Mr. Rex Shana, Vice President of the Law Development Commission, who noted that establishing such a register would require a robust legal framework and collaboration among various agencies.
While the concept has been met with general support, stakeholders are working on determining the legal, logistical, and ethical considerations for implementing the register. Public consultations and policy reviews are expected in the coming months to finalize the framework.
The move reflects Zimbabwe's broader commitment to strengthening its justice system and ensuring a safer society for all.
Source - The Herald
