Hidden crisis: Baby dumping on the rise

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

The alarming rise in cases of abandoned and murdered newborns in Southern Africa has become a pressing social issue. In Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Zambia, countless innocent lives are lost each year due to the tragic practice of baby dumping and infanticide.

In Zimbabwe, the number of reported cases has been steadily increasing. In 2023 alone, 63 cases were recorded, with the Midlands province leading the way. The situation is similar in South Africa, where an estimated 3,500 babies are abandoned annually. Zambia has also witnessed a concerning number of such incidents.

The reasons behind these heart-breaking acts are complex and multifaceted. Many young mothers, often facing unplanned pregnancies, resort to desperate measures to conceal their situation due to fear of societal rejection, financial constraints, or personal challenges.

In South Africa, the legalisation of abortion has not helped as a significant number of abandoned children are being found already dead. The majority of these tragic cases involve newborns and infants, often discarded in fields, dumping grounds, or public spaces.

The issue is not limited to South Africa and Zimbabwe. Zambia has also recorded 16 cases of baby dumping in the past two years. Experts attribute this phenomenon to a combination of factors, including unplanned pregnancies, societal pressures, and limited access to contraceptives.

Executive Director of WAG, Mrs. Masiyiwa, emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of baby dumping. She highlighted the need for comprehensive sex education, increased access to contraceptives, and greater societal support for young women facing unplanned pregnancies.

Pastor S Nyamhandu of AFM also pointed out the role of cultural and religious beliefs in contributing to the problem. He emphasized the need to challenge traditional norms that stigmatize women who become pregnant outside of marriage.

Patience Makiwa identified several solutions to eradicate the scourge of baby dumping and infanticide. She advocated for increased awareness campaigns, improved access to contraceptives, and greater societal support for women in need.

It is imperative that governments, communities, and individuals work together to address this pressing issue.