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Fungai Lupande
Mashonaland Central Bureau
Journalists have been advised to share stories of gender-based violence (GBV) survivors with dignity and respect and avoid sensationalism.
Speaking at a GBV-sensitive reporting Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI), executive director Mrs Lydia Madyirapanze emphasised that focusing only on the horror of GBV can reinforce stereotypes.
She said the training aims to deepen the understanding of GBV and its complexities, as well as to provide journalists with the necessary tools for sensitive reporting on GBV, fostering a culture of empathy and responsible journalism.
The Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ) executive director Mr Loughty Dube advised journalists to first understand the local gender dynamics and cultural attitudes towards sexual violence before reporting on GBV survivors.
He said that survivors or witnesses who bravely speak out about GBV but are not adequately protected are at risk of being shunned or even killed.
He also stressed the importance of using gender-neutral terms, being fair, impartial, and accurate, and planning interviews in a trauma-informed, sensitive manner while seeking meaningful consent.
FAWEZI project officer Ms Rujeko Chibaya said that one in every three women in Zimbabwe has experienced physical violence, and one in every four women has experienced sexual violence.
She pointed out that stigma, impurity, and the culture of silence have allowed the violence to persist.
“GBV is deeply rooted in systemic, cultural, and societal norms that perpetuate inequality and harm, devaluing women and girls, normalising abuse, and maintaining patriarchal power structures,” she said.
Online Reporter