Young boys exploited for begging in Harare

In a disturbing incident that shook the nation, two individuals were caught on video in August 2024 exploiting young boys by forcing them to beg for money in Harare  -  only to keep the earnings for themselves. The shocking footage quickly went viral, sparking widespread outrage over the cruel exploitation of vulnerable children.

The video showed the boys, appearing pitiful and desperate, pleading for money or goods from unsuspecting passers-by at busy traffic intersections. After collecting donations, the children would rush back to their "handlers," who closely monitored them and confiscated all the proceeds. In one particularly distressing scene, a boy was brutally beaten for allegedly failing to meet a begging quota.

Following the viral spread of the footage, law enforcement agencies swiftly arrested both the minors and their exploiters. However, despite initial efforts, the group resurfaced multiple times, continuing to operate in Harare's streets  -  especially at traffic light-controlled intersections where the children risk being injured by oncoming vehicles.

Authorities warn that these children do not beg out of their own choice. Instead, unscrupulous adults prey on vulnerable youngsters from disadvantaged areas such as Hopley and Epworth. These children are coerced into daily quotas under threat of harsh punishments including beatings and food deprivation.

Harare province police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza said that child beggars found on the streets are apprehended and handed over to the Department of Social Welfare, while adult beggars face police custody and prosecution.

"As law-enforcement officers, we collaborate with the Department of Social Welfare to apprehend child beggars. Once in our custody, they are handed over for further assistance," Inspector Chakanza explained.

Legal expert Edmore Govere emphasized that exploiting children for begging violates the Children's Act (Chapter 5:06), which protects minors from hazardous labour likely to harm their health, safety, or moral well-being.

"It is a criminal offence to employ children in this manner. Offenders face lengthy imprisonment," said Govere.

The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, responsible for child welfare, oversees the care of rescued children. Permanent Secretary Simon Masanga detailed the rigorous profiling process conducted by child protection officers, assessing each child's history, family situation, and health to develop tailored care plans.

"Assessment includes screening for substance use and communicable diseases, and aids family tracing and reunification efforts," said Masanga.

Children found to be in need of protection are placed in safe environments such as residential care facilities, kinship, or foster care. Family reunification is carefully managed to ensure the child's best interests, with follow-up support to prevent relapse.

Masanga highlighted socio-economic challenges driving children to the streets, including abuse, neglect, poverty, orphanhood, substance abuse, and truancy. To address these root causes, the government integrates affected children and families into social protection programs like the Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy, Urban Cash for Cereals transfers, Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), and Sustainable Livelihoods Project. Positive parenting initiatives also aim to improve family care capacity.

Interviews with some street children revealed the harsh realities behind their plight. Byron, a 12-year-old orphan, said he begs to survive after being abused and starved by his uncle's wife. "I can earn up to US$20 on a good day," he said. Emily, another child, supports her disabled mother through begging.

Most child beggars do not attend school, further compounding their vulnerability.

To prevent recurring exploitation, the government partners with NGOs such as the Angel of Hope Foundation for comprehensive rehabilitation. The Auxillia Mnangagwa Children's Home in Chiredzi provides specialized care and reintegration support for street children.

Provincial task forces in hotspots including Harare, Mutare, Bulawayo, Masvingo, and Gweru develop prevention strategies. At the national level, a steering committee coordinates policy and intervention reviews across ministries.

Masanga noted progress in rehabilitation efforts, particularly regarding substance abuse and skills training.

Social protection schemes such as BEAM provide educational support to orphans and vulnerable children, while food and cash transfer programs assist families facing food insecurity and poverty.

As Zimbabwe continues to confront the scourge of child exploitation on its streets, authorities and social welfare agencies remain committed to protecting vulnerable children, prosecuting offenders, and providing pathways to safety, education, and a better future.