By Simbarashe Muparaganda
Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe on Wednesday joined the global community in observing the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons under the theme: “Human Trafficking is Organized Crime – Stop the Exploitation.
” The commemorations have placed renewed focus on the country’s responsibility to combat this modern-day form of slavery. “Trafficking in persons affects people across all social classes, but it is the women and children who suffer the most,” the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services said in a statement.
The Ministry said human trafficking remains a pressing global and national concern, with the United Nations estimating over 27 million victims trapped in forced labour and sexual exploitation worldwide.
Zimbabwe, like many nations, is both a source and transit point for trafficking victims, many of whom are lured under false promises into exploitative labour and sexual abuse.
Zimbabwean victims have been identified across sectors such as agriculture, construction, IT, and hospitality—both domestically and abroad. The Ministry warned that encrypted messaging apps, online dating platforms, and digital currencies are now being used to lure, recruit and exploit individuals while evading law enforcement.
In response to these complex dynamics, Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its legislative and operational frameworks.
The country domesticated the UN Palermo Protocol in 2014 through the enactment of the Trafficking in Persons Act (Chapter 9:25), a key step in aligning local efforts with global standards.
More recently, Zimbabwe launched the National Plan of Action Against Trafficking in Persons (NAPLAC) 2023–2028, which is anchored on the internationally recognized “4 Ps”: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnerships.
The Government has also taken proactive steps to decentralize awareness efforts, choosing Bindura for this year’s commemorations to ensure national visibility and grassroots engagement.
“This is part of our thrust to take national events to all provinces,” the Ministry said, underscoring the need for community-level participation in the fight against trafficking.
New Ziana
