Harare, (New Ziana)- The Zimbabwe is in the process of drafting legislation to compel members of Apostolic sects to allow their children to receive vaccinations during mass immunization programs, a senior government official confirmed on Wednesday.
Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Sleiman Kwidini, said this in response to questions from legislators in the National Assembly on Wednesday.
He explained that some religious beliefs present significant challenges to health workers and the country, especially when children are due for vaccinations.
“We are addressing this matter alongside other government departments to ensure that children’s rights are upheld,” he said.
“Every child should receive help, regardless of their religious beliefs. When diseases affect us, they affect everyone. Therefore, we are working on a law that ensures every child benefits from vaccinations, regardless of their religious affiliation.”
In Zimbabwe, immunizing children from Apostolic sects has long been a challenge due to widespread religious beliefs that discourage the use of modern medicine, including vaccinations.
These beliefs often lead to parents seeking immunizations for their children in secret to avoid repercussions from their church, and this becomes particularly concerning during outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.
Kwidini however noted that some religious sects have become more open to vaccinating their children.
“Certain religious groups that previously opposed medical treatment are now inviting our Ministry to administer vaccines during their gatherings. While some new churches continue to resist vaccinations, most of the sects known for their previous opposition are now cooperating with the government, including registering under medical facilities for maternity services,” he said.
“However, a few sects are still hesitant to embrace these changes. The majority are now working with the government, allowing their children to be vaccinated and receive medical treatment at hospitals,” he added.
New Ziana
