mbulelo smpofu
THE tragic death of David Mujuru in Bulawayo sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of Gender-Based Violence (GBV): male victimisation. While GBV discussions typically focus on women and girls—justifiably so, given their disproportionate victimisation—it is crucial to acknowledge that men, too, can suffer silently in abusive relationships. The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence offers a timely platform to amplify this message and push for a holistic approach to addressing GBV.
The 16 Days run from 25 November to 10 December.
Mujuru’s story is a harrowing example of the intersecting pressures men face. His accusations of infidelity, coupled with physical altercations and unresolved emotional turmoil, culminated in his death by suicide. His chilling note reveals the depths of his anguish, underscoring the urgency of addressing mental health issues and toxic relational dynamics among men.
Statistics from Bulawayo indicate that 20 of the 21 recorded suicides between June and October were men. This staggering figure demands a re-evaluation of societal perceptions of masculinity. Traditional norms often discourage men from seeking help, labelling vulnerability as weakness. This culture of silence perpetuates cycles of violence, both as victims and perpetrators, leaving men isolated and unsupported.
The link between GBV and male mental health cannot be ignored. Male suicide often stems from a combination of societal pressures, unresolved emotional struggles, and relational conflicts. In Mujuru’s case, his physical abuse of his wife and subsequent evasion of accountability further illustrate the cyclical nature of GBV, where victims can also be perpetrators.
Efforts to combat GBV, such as the newly launched One-Stop Centres across Zimbabwe, are commendable. These facilities provide critical support to survivors, including legal aid, healthcare, and counselling. However, as Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development. Monica Mutsvangwa rightly pointed out, eliminating GBV is a collective responsibility. Men must not only be encouraged to adopt positive behaviours but also empowered to speak up when they are victims of abuse. Inclusivity in GBV initiatives ensures that no one suffers in silence.
Moreover, societal attitudes toward male victimisation need transformation. Community leaders like MacLean Nkomo have highlighted the importance of breaking the silence surrounding male abuse. Initiatives promoting male mental health and awareness campaigns tailored to men’s unique challenges are essential. These should challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage men to seek help without fear of stigma.
The 16 Days of Activism should not solely focus on women and girls, even as they remain the primary victims of GBV. It should also spotlight the struggles of men like Mujuru, whose pain went unnoticed until it was too late. Addressing male victimisation is not about diverting attention but about fostering a comprehensive approach to eradicating GBV in all its forms.
As Zimbabwe works toward its Vision 2030, the elimination of GBV must include efforts to support all victims, regardless of gender. Men, women, and children deserve a future free from the shadows of violence, where seeking help is a sign of strength, not shame. Let this campaign be a clarion call to break the silence and build a society where every life is valued and protected.
Sinokubonga Nkala
