Residents in some communities have raised concerns over individuals claiming to represent World Vision who were seen moving door-to-door asking for the number of children in households. The concerns were shared publicly after two women reportedly visited homes claiming to be collecting data for the organisation.
The matter was first reported by The Swazi Voice, where it was stated that the women did not produce any official documents or identification confirming their affiliation with World Vision. Some community members feared the activity could be linked to child trafficking and called on the organisation to clarify its involvement.
In response, World Vision Eswatini issued a statement confirming that a community-based child vulnerability mapping exercise is currently underway. The data collection, according to the organisation, is part of efforts to inform its upcoming strategy for supporting children in vulnerable communities.
World Vision said the visits are being carried out by its community volunteers, who are selected by local residents and are already known within the areas they serve. However, the organisation acknowledged growing public concern over child safety and promised that all volunteers will now carry additional forms of identification when conducting fieldwork.
“We understand the public’s concern, and we are grateful that community members are vigilant, especially where the safety of children is involved,” World Vision said in its statement.
The organisation encouraged community members to continue reporting any suspicious activity and to reach out directly for clarification whenever in doubt.
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