The rising number of street kids in Harare presents serious risks to public safety and health, requiring urgent action.
This increase has been accompanied by a rise in criminal activities, including robbery, vehicle vandalism, pickpocketing, theft and assault, which have heightened public concern and affected perceptions of safety in the city.
These street kids are also participating in blatant acts, such as snatching women's wigs, handbags, and food, which worsens the situation and fosters fear among citizens.
Underlying issues
Evidence suggests that many street kids in Harare have homes and parents, and their behaviour in public often mirrors patterns observed at home.
This pattern indicates potential underlying issues, such as inadequate parental guidance, support, or oversight, which may contribute to their involvement in crime.
As a result, the urban environment has become a place where some individuals commit illegal activities with limited fear of punishment, emboldened by the lack of effective deterrents.
Drug and substance abuse
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Reports indicate that drug and substance abuse significantly contribute to the challenging behaviours exhibited by street kids, with many involved in drug and substance use, which can lead to acts of intimidation, robbery, theft, and assault.
This pattern of drug and substance abuse not only harms their health but also affects the wider community.
As a result, limited access to rehabilitation services makes it difficult for these individuals to escape the cycle of addiction and crime.
Public health risks
The presence of street kids in Harare poses serious public health risks, as they frequently engage in open urination and defecation, increasing the likelihood of disease transmission.
Additionally, reports of childbirth occurring on the streets further complicate public health management, and the health consequences of these behaviours are extensive and require prompt intervention.
The need for immediate action
Given the seriousness of the situation, prompt action by law enforcement agents is essential to address the issues caused by these street kids in Harare.
Therefore, authorities must undertake decisive measures to confront the problem and ensure a safe and secure environment for all citizens.
For example, recent incidents such as the alleged rape of a young girl at the Copa Cabana bus terminus emphasise the urgency of this matter and the need for swift intervention.
Honestly, these street kids are acting as if they are in charge of Harare, doing whatever they please without any action taken against them.
It is now urgent for law enforcement agents to take strong measures to remove them from the city for the safety of residents.
There should be no mercy in acting against these street kids, as people now feel threatened by them.
Citizens should not be harassed, intimidated, or controlled by these street kids in the city.
Conclusion
The situation requires a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of street kids in Harare.
Nevertheless, urgent action is needed to ensure public safety.
Law enforcement agents must take decisive steps to completely remove these street kids from the city and restore a sense of security and protection for all citizens, so that Harare becomes a place where residents feel safe and secure.
*Clever Marisa (PhD) is a social scientist and public health practitioner. The views expressed here are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of his affiliated institution or any organisation
