adminKaren Mhlanga
WOMEN’S Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Dr Sithembiso Nyoni, has expressed concern about the recent spike in the abuse of young girls.
Ahead of the 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which begin tomorrow, she said she was shocked that someone can rape and impregnate a nine-year-old.
This year’s campaign will be held under two themes, “End Femicide” and “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls”.
“This campaign is amplifying our voices just for these 16 days, but our commitment towards addressing and ending all forms of violence continues to be prioritised for all 365 days of the year,” she said.
Minister Nyoni said their campaign is aimed at raising awareness on GBV as a human rights issue, providing a forum for sharing experiences, strategies and best practices in effectively addressing all forms of violence.
“As we commemorate this year’s 16 days, we do so in loving memory of many who have died due to GBV and related abuse issues.
“We have heard several depressing stories of young girls dying while giving birth, men committing suicide, both men and women murdering their intimate partners, and women murdering their children and committing suicide soon after.
“All these are lives lost emanating from GBV and sexual abuse-related issues.
“Let me draw attention to the reported cases of a nine-year-old minor in Tsholotsho and an eight-year-old minor in Bindura, respectively.
“These are just but a few of some dreadful cases of human rights abuses.
“I call upon all Zimbabweans to rise up and stop this cancer that is destroying the girl child.
“I challenge all stakeholders, partners and communities to report, and flash out all perpetrators of such evil acts from our communities.”
The main national commemoration will be held at Maramba Primary School in Uzumba-Marambapfungwe tomorrow.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter