HARARE, Aug. 13 (NewsDay Live) — Zimbabwe is developing an aftercare policy to support young people leaving alternative care, including orphanages and children’s homes, as they transition into adulthood and independent living.
Speaking at an Aftercare Policy Development Consultation meeting in Harare, Acting Director of Social Development in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Totamirepi Tirivavi said the policy would establish a coordinated national approach to supporting care leavers.
Tirivavi said young people leaving alternative care often face challenges that require support beyond the age of 18.
The policy would ensure they receive the necessary assistance as they transition to independent living, he said.
Officials said consultations had been completed in nine provinces, with the Harare Metropolitan engagement marking the final provincial consultation before the policy is finalised.
They stressed the need to incorporate the voices and lived experiences of young people with care experience into both the development and implementation of the policy.
