dyton mupawaenda
Tafara Chibanda
FEMALE religious leaders from across the country gathered in Harare this week for a workshop aimed at equipping them with skills to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in their communities.
The event, hosted by Trocaire and Musasa in partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development, focused on providing first-line support for GBV survivors and fostering survivor-centered approaches within faith spaces.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Women Affairs Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Monica Mutsvangwa stressed the critical role of the church in addressing GBV.
“This event, held during the 16 days of GBV, aims to break the silence on GBV within faith spaces and empower religious leaders to provide survivor-centered care and advocacy.
“Survivors of GBV need dignity and safety.
“We have opened counseling centres and shelters to ensure survivors feel secure and supported as they navigate these challenges, churches must be places where people find hope, not silence.”
Min Mutsvangwa added:
“Sometimes the root of violence stems from lack of empowerment, women must be taught life skills to earn their own money, so they can be independent.
“When a woman is empowered, her family and the entire community thrive.”
The workshop introduced participants to the SASA! Faith initiative, a programme developed by Trocaire that uses faith-based values to prevent violence and promote justice, peace, and dignity.
Laurell Mbaradza, Trocaire’s Global Women’s Advisor, said:
“Churches are often the first place women turn to when they face violence.
“However, we have seen a capacity gap in how faith leaders respond.
“This training equips them to provide survivor-centered support, guide victims to appropriate services, and interpret scripture in ways that empower women.”
Online Reporter