Chief Director in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Jonathan Gandari
By Dickson Bandera
Zimbabwe joined nations worldwide today in observing World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, with government officials warning that human trafficking remains a persistent threat requiring urgent collective action.
The national commemoration was held in Bindura bringing together law enforcement, social workers and community leaders under this year’s theme “Human Trafficking is Organised Crime – Stop the Exploitation.”
In a statement Mr Jonathan Gandari, Chief Director of the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, emphasized Zimbabwe’s vulnerability as a source, transit and destination country for trafficking victims.
“What was once predominantly a cross-border crime has now taken root within our communities through sophisticated networks. The traffickers operating in Zimbabwe today are connected to regional and international syndicates.”
The digital revolution has transformed trafficking operations, with criminals now using social media platforms, online job advertisements and dating apps to ensnare victims.
United Nations data presented at the event showed that 27 million people globally remain trapped in various forms of trafficking, with women and children comprising the majority of cases in Southern Africa.
Zimbabwe has responded by strengthening its legal framework, including the 2014 Trafficking in Persons Act and the current National Plan of Action running through 2028. However, social workers at the event stressed that more resources are needed for victim rehabilitation programs.
“The trauma doesn’t end when we rescue someone,” explained one counselor from Harare. “Many survivors need years of medical care, psychological support and skills training to rebuild their lives.”
Gandari called for heightened public vigilance, urging citizens to scrutinize overseas job offers, monitor community gatherings where recruitment might occur, and report suspicious activity to authorities.
“Traffickers prey on vulnerability and desperation,” he said. “By working together – communities, churches, schools and businesses – we can deny them the shadows where they operate.”
The commemoration also observed a minute of silence for trafficking victims and a renewed commitment to strengthen regional cooperation against transnational trafficking networks. Authorities announced plans to intensify border surveillance and community awareness campaigns in high-risk areas during the coming year.
