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to 2 242 this year from 1 581 last year.
According to Musasa Project, the cases recorded this year are from the beginning of January to 27 November, while cases recorded last year were for 12 months.This year’s campaign against gender-based violence is being held under the theme “From peace in the homes to peace in the communities: mobilising women as advocates for change.”
Speaking at the commemorations of the Bulawayo Provincial 16 days of activism against gender-based violence at Silwane Youth Centre in Old Pumula yesterday, the Musasa Project Bulawayo acting regional manager Mrs Thabani Chinembiri, said it was frightening that cases of gender-based violence were increasing despite awareness campaigns conducted by stakeholders.
However, she could not give the number of deaths. “As a people we really need to work together, establish the root cause of domestic violence so we can address the real issues and come up with better ways to curb violence in the homes,” said Mrs Chinembiri.
“The abusive home environment cultivates insecurity in children, bringing the risk of them becoming social malcontents or perpetrators of abuse.
“Mrs Chinembiri said the campaign would focus on the four Ps to fight gender-based violence which were prevention, protection, participation and programming.
“Our campaign is still continuing with last year’s focus as we launch the 16-day campaign with four Ps.
This calls for everybody to take part throughout the 365 days of the year.
“Let us not tolerate abuse and let us work towards empowering ourselves for peaceful homes, communities and a peaceful nation. The 16 days offer us an opportunity to renew the commitment to a gender-based violence free environment,” she said.
Pastor Sarah Nyathi from Harvest House International Church who was the guest of honour expressed sadness at the daily media reports on gruesome cases of domestic violence, saying 99 percent of the victims were women and girls.
“It is unfortunate that while gender-based violence can affect anyone, 99 percent of the victims are women and girls. Too many lives have been disrupted, affected and even lost through violence against women.
“According to a Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency survey, 30 percent of the women affected by gender-based violence have experienced physical violence at the age of 15 while many of them are being abused by a current or former boyfriend,” said Pastor Nyathi.
She expressed concern that gender-based violence was one of the key drivers of HIV and Aids in the country.
“In a 2005-2006 demographic and health survey it was reported that violence against women has been associated with the increase of HIV infection in women. During that period 28 percent of married women reported physical violence, while 18 percent reported sexual violence from their husbands. Such women are likely to be HIV positive than those who had not experienced violence.
“Domestic violence still remains a major problem in Zimbabwe. Some of the hindrances to progress against gender-based violence are some cultural and social practices that include workplace sexual harassment, economic disempowerment, cultural practices and the code of silence, where women are too embarrassed to speak out,” said Pastor Nyathi.
She commended the Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development for spearheading the campaign on zero tolerance against domestic abuse by demanding adequate protection for women, girls, men and boys.
The commemorations were attended by stakeholders who include Childline, Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association (ZWLA), Padare/Enkundleni Men’s Forum, and Zimbabwe Women Network (ZWN).
The commemorations were graced by Superintendent Precious Moyo of the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who is also the ZWN vice-chairperson, Bulawayo provincial development officer in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Community Development, Mrs Vaidah Mashangwa and councillors.
Online Reporter