GBV cases in Zim high: World Bank

ABOUT two out of five Zimbabwean women are experiencing physical violence while 11% are experiencing sexual violence as gender-based violence (GBV) remains pervasive in the country, the World Bank has said.

According to the police, Zimbabwe has recorded a staggering 16 444 cases of GBV and 31 deaths since January this year, with men cited as the main perpetrators.

Posting on its page, the World Bank said GBV has become alarmingly prevalent within the country’s borders where women endure peril within the confines of their own homes.

“In Zimbabwe, the recently published Zimbabwe GenderBased Violence Assessment report paints a disturbing picture, showing many women are still facing danger in their own homes. GBV remains pervasive, with high rates of physical violence,” the World Bank said.

“Approximately 39,4% of women have experienced physical violence, and an estimated 11,6% have experienced sexual violence.”

It said most of the physical violence cases are not reported leaving women trapped in cycles of abuse.

“Particularly alarming is that women do not always report abusive partners due to fears of retaliation and financial insecurity.”

The World Bank also said there was a critical need for improved access to healthcare and support for pregnant women to curb high maternal mortality rate in the country.

“Maternal mortality rates remain high at 363 deaths per 100 000 live births in 2022, far exceeding the Sustainable Development Goal target of 70 by 2030.”

Globally, the United Nations (UN) Office on Drugs and Crime and UN Women reported that over five women or girls are killed every hour by a family member.

According to the United Nations, the COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, and climate change have worsened violence against women and girls while intensifying existing challenges and introducing new threats.

In Zimbabwe, authorities continue paying lip service to the fight against the scourge of gender-based violence.