Online Reporter
Fairness Moyana in Hwange
HWANGE District on Friday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), with leaders, young people and community organisations calling for stronger action to confront both traditional and emerging forms of violence, particularly the rising wave of digital abuse targeting women and girls.
Speaking on behalf of the Acting District Development Co-ordinator, Mrs Nyaradzo Masoja, Ms Alice Bishi underscored the urgency of recognising online violence as a growing threat to safety, dignity and equality.
This year’s theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls” set the tone for the commemorations held at Empumalanga Terminus. It highlighted the expanding nature of GBV, which now extends beyond homes and communities to the vast digital spaces where Zimbabweans increasingly work, socialise and learn.
Mrs Masoja said the rise of technology-facilitated GBV including cyberbullying, online harassment, image-based abuse, and threats had created new vulnerabilities for women and girls, calling for stronger digital literacy, legal awareness and community vigilance.
“These forms of abuse are not lesser than physical violence. They inflict real harm, causing trauma, reputational damage and even real-world violence. Technology should be a tool for empowerment, not a weapon of harm,” she said.
The official warned that despite national efforts, GBV remains one of Zimbabwe’s most pervasive human rights violations, with evidence showing that one in three women aged 15–49 has experienced physical violence and one in four has suffered sexual violence. Many cases remain unreported due to fear, stigma or poor access to services.
Locally, she said Hwange continues to record worrying cases of domestic violence, child abuse, and coercion, with many survivors withdrawing cases due to pressure or fear.
Representing the chairperson of the Hwange Local Board, Councillor Petersen Ncube, Councillor Fani Chirwa said local authorities must play an active role in preventing violence and creating safe spaces for survivors. He applauded the Government for strengthening national GBV response mechanisms, including the Domestic Violence Act, the National GBV Strategy, One-Stop Centres, and police Victim-Friendly Units. However, he stressed that violence is also a local reality, demanding local solutions.
“GBV is not something happening elsewhere. It is happening here in Hwange, affecting women, girls, boys and even men. Ending it is a collective responsibility,” said Clr Ncube.
He outlined the Hwange Local Board’s commitment to supporting awareness campaigns, partnering with traditional leaders, churches and schools, creating safe reporting platforms, and integrating GBV prevention into local services and youth programmes.
In a strong and heartfelt message, Ward 5 Junior Councillor, Nomhle Mtshiya, spoke directly to young people, warning that digital violence has become a daily reality among Zimbabwe’s youth.
She said online bullying, shaming, hacking, pressure tactics and the non-consensual sharing of private information are forms of violence often dismissed as “jokes” by young people.
“GBV is not just something that happens to adults. It affects young people too. Our digital spaces should be safe for everyone. We must think before we post, share or comment,” she said.
Clr Mtshiya also encouraged youths to use technology for learning, creativity and positive influence. Closing the event, Hwange Local Board gender focal person, Councillor Ellen Zulu, urged participants to carry the message into their daily lives, emphasising that the campaign is not a one-off event but a year-round commitment.
“In unity, there is power. In solidarity, there is progress and in justice, there is hope. Let us ensure that our homes, communities and digital platforms become safe for all women and girls,” said Clr Zulu.
She reaffirmed the Local Board’s dedication to working with law enforcement, civil society and community leaders to prevent violence and provide support for survivors.
The commemorations ended with a collective pledge from residents, leaders and youth to reject all forms of violence — offline and online as well as to promote respect, empathy and accountability in homes and digital platforms.
As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism, Hwange’s message was clear —ending GBV requires unity, vigilance and everyday action.
