By Chisomo Sezi
Inkosi Jalavikuwa Munthali of Mzimba has raised concerns over the negative impact of parental migration to South Africa on children's education.
Migration to South Africa has negatively affected education-Jalavikuwa PIC Chisomo Sezi
Speaking at the Day of the African Child commemoration held in Eswazini, Mzimba, on Friday, Inkosi Jalavikuwa emphasized that many children left with their grandmothers struggle academically due to the absence of proper parental care.
"Many children in Mzimba are left in the care of grandmothers when their parents migrate to South Africa, and this practice is harming their educational progress.
"Challenges such as lack of parental guidance, early marriages, and discrimination against those with disabilities are hindering their educational development,” said Jalavikuwa.
He noted that the academic performance of learners in Mzimba has declined in recent years and urged parents to recognize the importance of education for all children, including those from marginalized communities.
Director of Education and Sports in Mzimba South, Bridget Nungu, echoed the chief’s concerns, stating that migration to South Africa not only deprives children of adequate care but also robs the country of its potential workforce.
“We are losing productive citizens to migration, and children left behind are often neglected, especially in child-headed households. This contributes to higher dropout rates and increased child marriages," said Nungu, thanking NGOs for stepping in to help children return to school.
We are losing productive citizens- Nungu PIC Chisomo Sezi
Coordinator for Inclusive Early Childhood Care and Development, Zindaba Tsukuluza, added that many Community-Based Child Care Centres (CBCCs) lack access to clean water, exposing children to preventable diseases.
Tsukuluza urged government officials and organizations to ensure all children have access to quality, inclusive education.
Social Welfare Officer for M'mbelwa District Council, Laban Ndemanje, reported that over 300 child marriage cases have been registered in Mzimba this year alone.
He attributed this to cultural factors and parental migration, with children left to fend for themselves often turning to early marriage.
The event, themed "Act Now," focused on promoting quality, inclusive education for all. It was organized by the M'mbelwa District Council in partnership with Save the Children, Synod of Livingstonia, World Relief, St. John of God, Mzimba Youth Organization, Red Cross Society, and other organizations.
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