MARTIN MAWAYA
HARARE-The Parliament of Zimbabwe and UNICEF on Tuesday signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration to promote the rights and wellbeing of children and women in the country.
The MoU, which took five years to finalize, involves the Zimbabwe Institute Board, the Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association, and legal think tank Veritas.
It signifies a commitment to addressing critical issues affecting children and establishing a more structured partnership between the two entities.
Although past collaborations have focused on capacity building, policy dialogue, and advocacy, this agreement provides a clear framework for joint planning and implementation.
“The signing of this MoU marks the beginning of a renewed journey of cooperation. We affirm our shared commitment to building a democratic, inclusive, and accountable parliamentary ecosystem,” said Advocate Jacob Mudenda, Speaker of the House of Assembly.
The partnership will focus on supporting evidence-based policymaking, improving oversight and accountability for child-focused budgets and legislation, and enhancing citizen participation in national development processes.
“Through its legislative and oversight functions, Parliament has the power to influence policies, budgets, and programs that directly impact children’s lives. This partnership will ensure that children’s voices and needs are central to national decision-making,” said Etona Ekole, UNICEF Representative.
The agreement builds on the momentum from the establishment of the Child Rights Caucus and Parliament’s ongoing efforts to promote girls’ education, improve access to sanitary products, and eliminate corporal punishment in schools.
A joint work plan outlining key areas of collaboration has been developed to guide efforts over the next two years.
This plan will be co-funded by both institutions and aims to deliver practical, measurable outcomes for children across Zimbabwe.
