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This research aims to determine the nature and scope of abuse and violence experienced by the children in child-headed families in Mashonaland East Province of Zimbabwe; identify the types and gravity of abuse and violence experienced in child-headed households; examine and explore the multilateral causes that make child-headed households susceptible and vulnerable to abuse and violence; and propose interventions for multi-stakeholder groups to reduce the violence and abuse in child-headed households and provide them with safe and secure livelihoods. The researcher administered 103 questionnaires and held 23 focus group discussions with the research group. This research found that there is 92.2 % incidence of psychological abuse, 4.9% physical abuse and 2.9 % sexual abuse, as reported by children, with one of the major causes being a lack of affection or love for the orphan. Children in child-headed households experience various forms of abuse and violence with lifelong effects. The study recommends local solutions and means of enforcement for abuse and violence through stronger community involvement.

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Wadzanai Katsande is a wife, mother, an activist and a firm believer in the power of economic empowerment. Her passion is taking action to ensure that developing countries find appropriate and innovative solutions to combat poverty, debt, poor governance and disease. She has been a rural development practitioner for over 21 years.

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