‘The issue of identity is a thorn in the flesh’: challenges in obtaining identity documents for children in residential care facilities in Harare, Zimbabwe

Children worldwide have the legitimate right to a birth certificate, which fulfils their right to identity. This article examines the challenges faced in obtaining identity documents for children in residential care facilities in Harare, Zimbabwe. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered from seven residential care facilities through eleven semi-structured interviews with seven directors and four residential social workers. Thematic analysis revealed three main barriers to birth registration: uncooperative parents or relatives who hinder the registration process, the non-renewal of court orders by the Department of Social Development (DSD), and the absence of resident social workers in some facilities. This study highlights the implications for improving birth registration in residential care facilities in Zimbabwe. It emphasises the need for effective mechanisms to address uncooperative parents or relatives in birth registration processes. The study calls for the timely renewal of court orders by the DSD. It further recommends the formation of an external committee to monitor the birth registration process. Recognising the critical role of social workers, the study further urges the DSD to ensure that each children’s home has at least one qualified social worker to support the birth registration process.