National GBV strategy out this month

ZIMBABWE will this month launch its National Strategy for Preventing and Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV), marking a significant step towards efforts to create a safer and more just society.

The strategy — developed through a collaborative effort involving the Government, civil society organisations and development partners — outlines a comprehensive framework for addressing all forms of GBV.

Speaking during an event to commemorate 16 Days of Activism Against GBV organised by the Media Institute of Southern Africa last week, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the Government remains committed to curbing violence against women and girls.

“My ministry has co-ordinated the review of the National Strategy for Preventing

and Addressing Gender-Based Violence, a strategy document that will provide guidance to all stakeholders towards GBV programming,” she said. “This strategy has taken on board emerging issues in GBV prevention and response and, as cadres from the media, you have a crucial role to play in information dissemination, which is critical in fighting GBV.

“This strategy will be launched this month and we shall all be running with it and ensuring that we implement the various strategies as guided by the document.” Implementation of the strategy, she said, will go a long way in addressing GBV in the country. “May I also point out that the Government cannot achieve zero tolerance to GBV on its own. As such, we need to have all stakeholders coming on board and working together with the Government to ensure that we eradicate this scourge. “This strategy was born out of a commitment that was made at the highest level through the signing and launch of the High-Level Political Compact on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices in

Zimbabwe by His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa, together with other stakeholders from the independent commissions, traditional leaders, religious leaders, the donor community, UN agencies and civil society organisations.

“The compact presents an opportunity for concerted efforts from all partners towards ending GBV and harmful practices in Zimbabwe.”

Data from the police shows that more than 16 400 women were victims of GBV during the first 10 months of the year, up from 15 400 during the same period last year.

In addition, approximately 2 400 men suffered GBV between January and October, marginally up from 1 700 during the first

10 months of 2022.

Experts say the statistics highlight Zimbabwe’s challenges with GBV and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the scourge.

This year’s commemorations of 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, which end today, ran under the theme “UNITE! Invest to Prevent Violence against

Women and Girls”.

Said Minister Mutsvangwa: “My ministry continues to coordinate efforts towards addressing gender-based violence through various interventions, particularly by ensuring that the legal and policy frameworks are strengthened and are protective of women and girls.

“We continuously collaborate with different stakeholders such as the Government; civil society; development partners, traditional and religious leaders; and the private sector in efforts to prevent and respond to GBV through a whole-of-government and society approach.”

Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said an increasing number of men are reporting cases of GBV.

“Men are now coming forward to report abuse by women,” he said.

“Communities should continue giving credence to the issue of peace and tranquility in families.

“When couples have challenges here and there, only engagement and discussions can solve some of the differences.”