Young Persons and Work

In Zimbabwe young persons have restricted legal capacity. 

In terms of the Labour Act, the minimum age for a person to sign a work contract is 15 years. The minimum age for a person to sign a contract of apprenticeship is 13 years.

However, such persons would still be subject to parental or guardian authority. 

Any contract made in violation of the above section is "void and unenforceable against the person purportedly employed under such contract". This is upheld whether or not such person was assisted by the guardian, or was married or otherwise tacitly or expressly emancipated.

The law also prohibits employing persons below 18 years in work that may jeopardise their health, safety and/or morals. 

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Find out about Labour Laws in Zimbabwe in our Decent Work Section.