Institute of Women Social Workers march to mark 16 Days of Activism against GBV

Obey Musiwa

Herald Reporter

The Institute of Women Social Workers recently organised a march from Mwanza Secondary School in Goromonzi to the local growth point to mark 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.

They were also commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, a United Nations initiative meant to promote gender equality.

Addressing the media during the march, Nyamayaro village leader, Mr Cuthbert Nyamayaro said,” Our community is facing a crisis of early teen pregnancies, school dropouts, and gender violence. Some people still subscribe to harmful stereotypes that the girl child is a sex object.

“It is vital to raise awareness and provide educational support to break these cycles and uphold peace in our community.

“We cannot sit back and watch girls and women suffer in silence; we must act now to protect them from harm and empower them to reach their full potential.”

According to Mr Nyamayaro, the community is grappling with critical issues, including early teen pregnancies, school dropouts, and gender-based violence, largely driven by harmful gender stereotypes.

He emphasised the importance of educational support and increased awareness to counteract these negative societal trends and establish a peaceful rural community.

Goromonzi Ward 12 Councillor Kondwakuenda Magaya highlighted the alarming rise in GBV cases in local schools and the wider community.

“Early child marriages have become widespread, and many people remain oblivious to the laws that prohibit such practices,” he said.

“The recent revelation of 13 cases of early pregnancy across seven schools in Mwanza ward is deeply disturbing.

“This type of awareness and education is vital to transform our society into a safer place for everyone.”

Councillor Magaya expressed concern over the soaring number of GBV cases, particularly among young girls in local schools, leading to a spike in early pregnancies.

A community member said the march is an instrument that can be used to stop the abuse of women.

“This march is a powerful tool for change in our community,” said Ms Patricia Nyamayaro.

“It is a symbolic gesture that represents our determination to end the vicious cycle of violence and abuse against women and girls. We are taking a stand and saying no to gender-based violence.

“Today, we march not just for ourselves but for future generations, for a better tomorrow where women and girls can live without fear and have equal opportunities to thrive.”