In rural Zimbabwe, many families cannot afford to get their children registered with the government. Without a birth certificate, a child cannot be enrolled in a government school, cannot get food or medical aid, and more. UNICEF reported that without a birth certificate, “a child is invisible to their government”, meaning they would miss out on their rights being protected and upheld as well as essential services like health care and education. Furthermore, a birth certificate is a legal proof of identity, which can help protect children from violence, abuse, and exploitation. Without a birth certificate, children are unable to prove their age, which puts them at higher risk of being forced into early marriage and forced labor. Additionally, birth registration is needed for other important things such as opening a bank account, registering to vote, getting a passport, entering a formal job market, buying or inheriting a property, or receiving social assistance.
It costs just $42.00 (USD) per child to get official government registration. 100% of every donation will be matched by All the Sky Foundation and are designated to directly benefit the children in Zimbabwe.
In partnership with Simuka Africa