By A Correspondent – Masvingo, Zimbabwe — The Masvingo Women’s Rights Advocacy Group (MWRAG) has launched a determined and community-driven initiative aimed at ending child sexual abuse within the Shangani minority community in Chiredzi District. The effort targets harmful practices associated with the Khomba tradition in remote areas such as Chilonga, Malilangwe, and Malipati, close to the Mozambique border.

The initiative is part of the broader #SaveTheChilongaGirlsMovement, a grassroots campaign dedicated to ensuring that traditional customs align with constitutional and international protections for women and girls. By challenging deep-rooted norms that expose young girls to exploitation, the movement is pushing for a cultural shift toward safety, dignity, and empowerment.

“Ending child sexual abuse is a priority that cannot be overlooked,” said a MWRAG spokesperson. “Through collaboration with local organizations and traditional leaders, we are educating communities on the urgent need to safeguard our girls’ rights.”

MWRAG’s strategy is grounded in inclusivity, working alongside community elders, youth leaders, and civil society groups to reshape attitudes and practices. The Save The Chilonga Girls Movement continues to rally support from a broad coalition of advocacy organizations united in their commitment to raising awareness, driving change, and uplifting survivor voices.

The initiative also reinforces recent government efforts to strengthen child protection mechanisms and enforce laws against sexual violence. MWRAG applauds these developments while stressing that true transformation requires both strong legal action and meaningful cultural change.

“We are hopeful that our collective efforts will lead to a generational shift,” the spokesperson added. “A future where every Shangani girl grows up free from harm and empowered to thrive.”

As momentum builds, the Save The Chilonga Girls Movement stands as a symbol of hope—showing how community-led advocacy rooted in feminist principles can challenge harmful practices and help build safer, rights-based futures for all girls.