Staff Reporter
As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Zimbabwe has joined the global campaign by highlighting survivor stories and the vital role of safe shelters and mobile one-stop centres in supporting victims.
During the campaign’s launch, on November 25, 2024, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV).
“Zimbabwe’s strides in promoting gender equality, citing key legal and policy milestones such as the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, mandatory sentencing for rape offenders, and the High-Level Political Compact on Ending Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices (2021-2030).
“The launch of this compact by His Excellency President Mnangagwa in 2021 demonstrates our political will and national commitment to eliminating violence against women and girls,” she stated.
Senator Mutsvangwa emphasized that these initiatives are critical to creating a safer, more equitable society for all.
“Measures to enhance GBV response, including the decentralization of legal aid services, the introduction of virtual courts, the establishment of GBV call centers, and the development of community-based shelters and one-stop centers to provide comprehensive support in remote areas. I acknowledge the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, for spearheading these initiatives,” she explained.
One such survivor is Sitshengisiwe Ngwenya, from Bubi District, who endured five years of physical and verbal abuse at the hands of her husband. After a brutal assault, she sought refuge at a Musasa safe shelter.
“I tried all avenues, including reporting to the village head, but the abuse continued. After a severe beating, someone told me about the Musasa shelter. When I arrived, I was confused, unable to eat or sleep.
“The shelter provided counseling, medical care, and legal support. They even helped me take my case to court and escorted me to retrieve my belongings and children because I knew staying would endanger my life. Now, I am figuring out my next steps to rebuild far away from him,” Ngwenya shared.
Ngwenya’s story mirrors the experiences of many women in Zimbabwe, where 40% have faced physical violence, and 11.6% have suffered sexual violence.
The 16 Days of Activism runs until December 10, with national commemorations slated for November 27 at Mawabeni Primary School in Matabeleland South. This year’s campaign not only raises awareness but also underscores the need for collective action to end violence against women and girls in Zimbabwe.
