GOKWE GENDER BASED VIOLENCE CAMPAIGN


Last week, Gokwe Town Council proudly joined the National 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, rallying together with Council staff, Councillors, Junior Councillors, stakeholders, and residents. United under the theme

"Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls," we marched through the heart of Gokwe Town, sending a powerful message.

As champions of human rights and advocates for marginalized communities, Gokwe Town Council stands resolutely against all forms of violence directed at women and girls. We believe that ending this violence requires relentless, ongoing action—not just a momentary response.

Gender-based violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations, with alarming statistics revealing that 40% of women aged 15 to 49 in Zimbabwe have suffered physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner, and shockingly, fewer than 40% seek help. The repercussions of such violence are far-reaching, stunting sustainable development and obstructing our journey toward true gender equality. This issue doesn't only affect individuals; it tears apart families, stalls societal progress, and poses a significant threat to economic growth.

Worryingly, adolescent girls are increasingly becoming victims of sexual violence in places that should offer them safety. Both public and private spaces have turned into arenas for physical, psychological, verbal, and sexual abuse, with perpetrators normalizing these horrific acts. Survivors often face secondary victimization and unjust blame, compounding their trauma.

We applaud the Constitutional Court for its landmark decision to raise the age of consent from 16 to 18, a vital step in safeguarding our children from exploitation and abuse. We urge that the Criminal Law Code aligns with Section 81 (1) of the Constitution, which defines a child as anyone under 18 and underscores their right to protection.

Let’s join forces and take action to eliminate violence against women and girls once and for all! Together, we can make a difference