PARLIAMENT and the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at protecting child rights and wellbeing.
This partnership, five years in the making, seeks to build a democratic, inclusive and accountable parliamentary ecosystem.
The MoU includes key partners such as the Zimbabwe Institute Board, Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association and Veritas, and provides a clear framework for joint planning and implementation.
Through the partnership, the institutions will work together to support evidence-based policy-making, improve oversight and accountability for child-focused budgets and legislation, and enhance citizen participation in national development processes.
“The signing of this MoU marks the beginning of a renewed journey of co-operation,” Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda said.
“We affirm our shared commitment to building a democratic, inclusive and accountable parliamentary ecosystem.”
Unicef representative Etona Ekole said the partnership would prioritise children’s voices and needs in national decision-making processes.
“Through its legislative and oversight functions, Parliament has the power to influence policies, budgets, and programmes that directly impact the lives of children,” Ekole said.
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“This partnership will ensure children’s voices and needs are placed at the heart of national decision-making processes.”
The partnership builds on the momentum created by the establishment of the Child Rights Caucus and Parliament’s on-going work to promote education for the girl child, access to sanitary products and the elimination of corporal punishment in schools.
A joint work plan outlining key areas of collaboration has been developed, guiding efforts over the next two years.
The work plan will be co-funded by both institutions and focuses on delivering practical, measurable outcomes for children across Zimbabwe.
