United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Women’s Affairs ministry, and other stakeholders have joined forces to combat gender-based viol3nce (GBV) in Zimbabwe.
Merjury Sikundla, development officer for the Women’s Affairs ministry in Matabeleland South, reported that their interventions have had a significant impact, rescuing numerous GBV victims from rural areas and providing them with safe transportation to clinics, hospitals, and other safe spaces.
According to the police, Zimbabwe has recorded a staggering 16,444 cases of GBV and 31 d3aths since January this year, with men identified as the primary perpetrators.
Patricia Mujajati, UNFPA Zimbabwe programmes analyst for GBV, explained that the programme aims to reduce the risk of women and girls becoming victims of GBV.
Community mobilization and training social and behavioral change champions have been key strategies in raising awareness about GBV at the community level. Additionally, non-GBV actors, such as healthcare providers and food security actors, have been trained to support GBV survivors.
Vimbainashe Mutendereki, executive director of Musasa, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about GBV, stating that change begins with knowledge and understanding what GBV entails.
In January, the government launched a national strategy to prevent and address GBV, covering the period 2023-2030. This initiative aims to combat the alarming prevalence of GBV in Zimbabwe, where at least 40% of women experience physical violence and 11% experience sexual violence, according to a recent World Bank report.
The World Bank has urged for collective action to address GBV, highlighting the need to protect women from this pervasive peril that often occurs within the confines of their own homes.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
