adminSpeaking during the Matabeleland South provincial commemorations of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence (GBV) at Silobi Primary School in Matobo, recently, Governor Masuku said peace should begin in the home.
“Men should not be shy to report cases of violence against them. The fight against gender-based violence is not restricted to women alone. Men are sometimes silent victims of violence. Violence is violence regardless of gender so do not be ashamed to report abuse by your wives,” she said.
Governor Masuku, however, acknowledged that most of the violence was perpetrated by men and called for concerted efforts to reverse the trend.
Bulawayo Province also held its commemorations where participants called for the end of gender based violence.
Speaking at the occasion the police’s network representative in the Victim Friendly Unit (VFU), Chief Superintendent Gladys Maketo said it was a fact that men were also victims of gender based violence.
“Let me also point out that men and boys are equally susceptible to domestic violence. They can be protected if they come out and report cases of abuse. Some of us may wrongly think that the Domestic Violence Act is one sided,” said Chief Supt Maketo.
Chief Supt Maketo urged communities to unite in the fight against domestic violence and assured Zimbabweans that the police will act on reports of abuse.
“What ever explanation one may give, domestic violence is a societal thorn that has pricked many families leaving deep marks that are difficult to heal.
“In some cases, women, children and men have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence perpetrated against them by their partners,” she said.
Chief Supt Maketo said the police was there to work with the communities in stamping out gender based violence.
Online Reporter