Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
MINISTER of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has called on communities to take ownership of the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), warning that the scourge has far-reaching social and economic consequences that threaten Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 aspirations.
He said GBV is not only a human rights issue but also a major economic burden that drains national development, weakens the public health system and undermines inclusive growth.
Minister Nguluvhe made the remarks in a speech read on his behalf by the deputy director for business development, Mr Tichaona Mudzviti, during the provincial commemorations of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence held at Marubamba Shopping Centre in Insiza District.
This year’s commemorations ran under the theme: “Unite! To End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls.”
Minister Nguluvhe said the rapid growth in the use of digital technologies has created new avenues for abuse, making it imperative for communities to guard against the rise of digital violence.
“This is a grand occasion where we reinforce our commitment to ending gender-based violence and harmful practices, not only in Matabeleland South but across the world,” he said.
“With more of our social, economic and political activities shifting online, digital spaces have unfortunately become new battlegrounds for gender-based violence.”
Minister Nguluvhe noted that while the digital world holds promise for education, innovation and economic freedom, for many women and girls it has become a space of harm characterised by harassment, threats, exploitation and abuse hidden behind screens and anonymity.
He emphasised the need to promote digital safety initiatives that foster a culture of respect, accountability and equality online, urging citizens to use digital platforms responsibly and for development.
Minister Nguluvhe said Zimbabwe could not attain upper middle-income status when half of the population continues to suffer violence.
“Gender-based violence is an economic burden that costs us lives, dignity and billions of dollars.
Protecting women and girls is not a seasonal activity but an everyday commitment. Digital spaces must be safe for all women and girls,” he said.
The minister also called for strengthened monitoring and improved data systems to better track cases of digital violence and inform policy and interventions.
“After the 16 Days of Activism period, let us remember that the work does not end on December 10. We must remain vigilant and committed throughout the year,” he said.
In a separate address read on her behalf by Mangwe District Development Officer, Mr Gwababa, the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development’s Matabeleland South provincial development co-ordinator, Mrs Marjorie Sikhundla, said while the 16 days amplify the fight against GBV, the struggle continues year-round.
Mrs Sikhundla said although this year’s theme focuses on ending digital violence against women and girls, it does not exclude men and boys.
“Our concern remains largely on women and girls because they are the most affected, but this is a societal issue that requires collective action,” she said.
Mrs Sikhundla warned that online abuse often spills into physical violence and urged Government, technology companies, families and communities to work together to create safer digital spaces.
“I implore all stakeholders to take positive steps to create communities where violence is not tolerated, and where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. This calls for strengthening of the multi-sectoral response to GBV and ensure access to comprehensive GBV support services such as health care, legal assistance and counselling services,” she said.
— @DubeMatutu
