Chronicle Editor
Tanyaradzwa Mudzamiri
APRIL 2024 marked the 23rd anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This observance brings to the fore the reality that sexual violence is pervasive and affects every individual in society.
In 2023, the theme for Sexual Assault Awareness Month was “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.” The 2024 theme, “Building Connected Communities,” highlights the critical role of communal efforts in reducing and ultimately eradicating sexual assault, abuse and harassment for all genders.
There is a common misconception in society that sexual assault predominantly affects females; however, males also confront challenges related to sexual assault. For men who experience such violence, the gender of the perpetrator can vary depending on the type of sexual violence encountered.
What constitutes sexual assault? It refers to any sexual contact or behaviour that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim. Perpetrators may employ physical force, psychological manipulation, intimidation, threats of retaliation, emotional coercion or the use of drugs or alcohol to commit assaults.
While it is true that females are more frequently subjected to sexual assault, harassment and abuse than males, the National Sexual Violence Resource Centre (NSVRC) reports that over half of women and nearly one in three men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact. Sexual assault can occur anywhere and at any time — on the streets, in offices, schools, or even at home — and can affect anyone, adult or minor alike.
Minors, defined as individuals under the age of 18, are particularly vulnerable to sexual assault, often lacking awareness and the means to defend themselves. The repercussions of sexual abuse of minors are profound and pervasive. Incidents of minors being sexually assaulted or abused are reported daily in Zimbabwe and around the globe.
Adults, parents and guardians bear the responsibility to protect minors and recognise signs of assault. Any sexual relationship or contact with minors, consensual or otherwise, is considered sexual abuse or assault. In Zimbabwe, it is a criminal offense to sexually assault or engage in a sexual relationship with a person under the age of 18, regardless of their consent.
While the law explicitly prohibits such acts, enforcement in practice is often lacking. The legislation aims to safeguard minors, recognising that they may not fully comprehend the long-term implications of a sexual relationship at their age. Sexual offences against minors also encompass sodomy, incest and abduction.
Sexual assault can be perpetrated by someone known to the victim, such as a spouse or relative. Any sexual activity without consent is assault, irrespective of the perpetrator’s relationship to the victim. Psychologists note that sexual assault within an intimate relationship can have multiple adverse physical and psychological consequences.
Assaults can also be committed by strangers, leaving victims with either short-term or long-term effects or trauma. While many survivors demonstrate remarkable resilience and function well, others may experience severe distress immediately or have delayed reactions, sometimes years later. The duration and severity of suffering post-assault vary widely among individuals.
The month of April is dedicated to spreading awareness about sexual violence, equipping the community with knowledge, and informing survivors of the appropriate measures to take and where to seek help. It is crucial to remain vigilant and protect minors from potential perpetrators.
Online Reporter