Staff reporter
The United Nations (UN), has applauded the Government for launching the Anti-Trafficking in Persons National Plan of Action of 2023- 2028.
The UN resident coordinator in Zimbabwe, Edward Kallon, said the UN family in Zimbabwe recognised the efforts that were made by the Government of Zimbabwe.
“The United Nations Family in Zimbabwe recognises the efforts that have been made by the Government of Zimbabwe, at policy, legal and institutional levels to fight human trafficking. I would like to reiterate that the UN will continue to support the Government of Zimbabwe through strengthening technical cooperation to enhance the fight against human trafficking while working towards addressing the root causes of human trafficking,” said Ambassador Edward Kallon.
Speaking at the launch of the of the 2023- 2028 Zimbabwe anti-trafficking in persons National Plan of Action yesterday, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, said the launch marked the country’s commitment of pulling out all stops to halt human trafficking.
“It has since been noted that our laws’ definition of the crime of trafficking in persons needs to be reviewed to make it consistent with current best international standards. Trafficking in persons is a real danger. Hence, we need clear and robust institutional arrangements to deal with this scourge as part of the regional and global family,” said Vice President Chiwenga.
Vice President Chiwenga also highlighted the issue of Kuwait where a number of women were lured on fake job promises and how the action plan would help tackle these challenges.
“Our trafficking in persons’ National Plan of Action, was therefore, crafted to guide on how we tackle this challenge. In 2016, lured by false job promises, a significant number of Zimbabwean women were trafficked to Kuwait. When the plight of these 213 citizens reached us, the Government facilitated their repatriation and brought them back home safely. This is why you have heard His Excellency the President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa saying wherever Zimbabweans are, we welcome them back home,” said Vice President.
