BY NDUMISO TSHUMA
Traditional and religious leaders in Zimbabwe have voiced strong opposition to the legalization of abortion, citing cultural norms, religious beliefs, and the sanctity of life.
Zimbabwe currently allows abortion under limited circumstances outlined in the Termination of Pregnancy Act. These include situations where the mother’s life or health is at risk, the fetus has severe physical or mental defects or the pregnancy results from rape, incest, or intercourse with a mentally disabled woman.
During a recent discussion on the issue, Chief Sabuwe of Binga emphasised the importance of life according to his faith. “A child is a blessing from God,” he said. “Terminating a pregnancy is going against the creator himself. Why deny them the right to live?”
Similarly, Chief Murugwane of Mberengwa argued that abortion goes against cultural norms and values. “The call for legalized abortion rejects the cultural norms and values Zimbabweans embraced during the 2013 constitutional review exercise,” he said.
Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs, expressed doubt that legalising abortion would gain traction in Parliament due to traditional beliefs. “There is no way we can support abortion. It’s foreign to our values, and knowing the present Parliament, I don’t see that motion getting any support,” he said.
Archbishop Alex Thomas of the Roman Catholic Church echoed these sentiments, citing biblical teachings against killing. “The Bible says ‘thou shalt not kill,'” he said. “Abortion should only be allowed in exceptional cases as enshrined in the law. Otherwise, making it open will worsen things for our society.”
Despite existing legislation, illegal abortions remain a concern. Government data estimates over 80,000 illegal abortions occur annually in Zimbabwe, posing health risks and legal consequences.
While traditional leaders and the Church oppose broader legalisation, some residents argue for it with safeguards.
Debating the issue on This Morning on Asakhe, a daily current affairs programme hosted by CITE on X Spaces, participants said abortion should be legalised.
“Abortion should be legalised, but there should be counselling to understand why they want to abort,” said one participant. “People shouldn’t be judgmental. Legal abortion should include counselling sessions.”
Another participant highlighted the plight of women who may want to pursue careers and choose abortion after an unintended pregnancy. “Traditional leaders should consider girls who want to pursue careers but become pregnant. They should also consider rape cases where women need the right to abort before it’s too late,” the source said.
Another participant argued that abortion has always been part of our culture. “We can’t say abortion is foreign. Our sangomas have performed abortions for a long time. Legalising it protects women for various reasons,” he said.
