Children make use of mobile phones in Africa

25 November 2009: Plan has supported the launch of a new toll free childline number in Zimbabwe, only the second country in Africa to introduce the service.

The new 116 number allows children to call Childline Zimbabwe from mobile phones for free across the country. Since the trial run of this service started, the childline has handled 10,000 cases every month compared to 3,000 in 2008 when the toll free lines were restricted to land lines only.

Child abuse

A snap survey of the calls received by Childline shows that 68% of callers are girls seeking advice on how to handle sexual and physical abuse perpetrated at school and in homes.

The revelation confirms Plan Zimbabwe’s Learn Without Fear research findings that sexual and physical abuse cases are under reported in the country. It also reinforces Plan’s Because I am a Girl campaign to improve girls' lives.

Plan Zimbabwe country director, Else Kragholm, said: “Children and youth now have a voice as the 116 gives them an opportunity to get help and assistance 24/7. It is therefore important that Plan Zimbabwe supports Childline Zimbabwe in establishing more counselling services and strengthen the referral structures as we now can see that many more calls will come.”

Counselling

While the launch was taking place in the 116 call centre in Harare, a 10-year-old girl called in saying her father is an alcoholic and violent and she is afraid to go home. After talking to the girl the Childline counsellor spoke with her friend’s mother who agreed to keep the young girl safe for the weekend and that Childline could visit on Monday to provide some direct assistance.

Childline Zimbabwe also runs 6 drop-in centres which provide free counselling and support.  Plan Zimbabwe has supported Childline in many awareness campaigns and there are plans to support establishment of drop-in centres in the rural communities where Plan Zimbabwe works together with the communities and partners.

Speaking at the launch of the 116 service, Donald, an 11-year-old boy said: “I am happy we have a number we can call anytime of the day for advice when we are scared or in trouble. It is a line for all children. We now have a voice.”

Find out more about Plan's work in Zimbabwe.