Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube | Zim GBC News
BULAWAYO – Zimbabwe’s media fraternity and law enforcement agencies are facing sharp criticism from rights groups this week following the handling of a high-profile kidnapping case involving a 14-year-old suspect.
The incident, which has sparked a national conversation on child protection, relates to the abduction and subsequent recovery of two-year-old Asanda Ndlovu. The toddler was reported missing from Meikles Mall in Bulawayo last Tuesday and was found two days later at a city flat, leading to the arrest of the teenage girl.
However, controversy erupted when journalists, including mainstream media reporters, freelancers, and content creators, allegedly conducted an extensive on-camera interview with the minor at a police station.
Rights Groups Condounce Breach of Ethics
Media4Gender Justice has issued a strongly worded statement condemning the actions of the journalists involved, describing the incident as a grave violation of media ethics and the rights of the child.
“We note with deep concern and disappointment the events that unfolded today in Bulawayo, where journalists… reportedly interviewed a 14-year-old girl accused of kidnapping a two-year-old child,” the organization said.
According to reports, the young girl was questioned at length about the alleged crime, with journalists asking for her full name despite her age. While her face was partially obscured by a mask, advocates argue that revealing her identity through her name undermines efforts to protect her privacy and safety.
“The girl, who is a minor, was reportedly questioned extensively on camera… Interviewing a minor without the consent or presence of a parent or legal guardian is a clear breach of established ethical guidelines governing the media profession,” Media4Gender Justice added.
The organization emphasized that the pursuit of news should never compromise fundamental principles of human dignity.
“Journalists have a duty to report accurately and responsibly, but they also carry an obligation to safeguard vulnerable individuals, especially children. The pursuit of content must never override the fundamental principles of child protection and human dignity.”
The rights group also turned its attention to the role of the police, questioning how a child in custody was allowed to be subjected to such media scrutiny.
“We further urge law enforcement authorities to reflect on their role in this matter. Police officers are entrusted with protecting minors in their custody and ensuring that their rights are upheld. Allowing a child to be subjected to media questioning in such circumstances is deeply troubling.”
Media Regulator Weighs In
In response to the growing outcry, the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) issued a press statement on Monday reaffirming its commitment to child rights protection.
The ZMC reminded all media practitioners that reporting on matters involving children must be guided by the best interests of the child, prioritizing dignity and privacy. The Commission specifically warned against the disclosure of identifying information that could compromise a child’s safety or wellbeing.
“The disclosure of identifying information, images, or details that may compromise a child’s safety or wellbeing is inconsistent with ethical journalism practices and the Commission does not condone such,” read the statement from the ZMC.
The regulatory body urged media houses to ensure that the identity of children in sensitive cases is protected, coverage avoids sensationalism, and all ethical codes regarding child-sensitive reporting are strictly observed.
A Call for Introspection
Media4Gender Justice has called on the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe to urgently investigate the matter and engage the media houses involved to reinforce ethical standards, particularly regarding coverage involving children.
“This moment calls for introspection within the journalism profession and renewed commitment to the codes of conduct that guide our work. The credibility of the media depends not only on breaking news but on upholding integrity, fairness and the protection of the most vulnerable in our society,” the organisation concluded.
FOLLOW US FOR REAL-TIME UPDATES:
· X (Twitter): @ZimGbc
· Instagram: @ZimGBCNews
· TikTok: @ZimGBCNews_01
· Facebook: Zim GBC News
· YouTube: Zim GBC News
Get real-time alerts on WhatsApp:
+263 773 820 323
For in-depth coverage, visit our website: www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
Zim GBC News | Global News From An African Perspective©2026