Siphakeme .Mnindwa
IN a world where the statistics surrounding Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remain alarmingly high, the recent commitment by the Zimbabwean Government to ensure that survivors receive adequate response services is a significant step towards addressing this pervasive issue.
The remarks made by Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Monica Mutsvangwa, during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Bulawayo recently, resonate not only as a promise but as a call to action for the Government, communities, and individuals alike.
The commissioning of the Mpilo One-Stop Centre is a noteworthy achievement, marking the 18th facility established to provide comprehensive services for survivors of GBV. This initiative is critical, especially given the data shared by Minister Mutsvangwa, which indicates that nearly half of the women aged 15 to 49 in Zimbabwe have experienced some form of violence.
Such staggering figures underline the urgency of the situation and the need for effective and accessible support systems.
The establishment of One-Stop Centres is a commendable approach that seeks to address the multifaceted needs of survivors under one roof, offering health, legal, and psychosocial services at no cost.
However, while the Government’s commitment is laudable, the real challenge lies in the execution and the genuine transformation of these facilities into safe havens for survivors. Minister Mutsvangwa’s emphasis on the need for training staff to be empathetic and survivor-friendly is crucial. Survivors must feel welcomed and supported, rather than face further stigmatisation and barriers when seeking help.
The minister’s call for male engagement programmes is particularly poignant. Gender norms and societal expectations often trap men in roles that perpetuate violence, while simultaneously marginalising the voices of women.
Engaging men in conversations about respect, equality, and the detrimental effects of GBV is essential in fostering a culture that denounces violence and supports survivors.
This holistic approach can cultivate an environment where everyone plays a role in combating GBV, rather than leaving the onus solely on women to advocate for their safety.
Moreover, the theme for the provincial commemorations, “Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” serves as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that remains. The Beijing Declaration, established nearly three decades ago, set out a comprehensive agenda for achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment. However, the ongoing prevalence of GBV highlights the gap between policy and practice. It is imperative that the Government not only reflects on past commitments but also actively engages in implementing measures that translate these declarations into reality.
The stigma surrounding GBV, as Minister Mutsvangwa noted, plays a significant role in silencing victims.
Many survivors grapple with shame and fear of further victimisation, which can lead to a cycle of silence that perpetuates violence.
It is essential for the Government, NGOs, and community organisations to work collaboratively to create awareness campaigns that challenge these stigmas and encourage survivors to seek help.
Education is a powerful tool; by fostering an environment where discussions around GBV are normalised, society can begin to dismantle the barriers that prevent victims from coming forward.
Furthermore, the Government must also address the logistical issues that hinder access to these services. Many facilities are located far from the communities they serve, creating additional challenges for survivors seeking assistance. Accessibility is a critical component in ensuring that survivors can reach the support they need. This can be achieved by strategically placing services within communities and ensuring that transportation options are available for those who need them.
While the establishment of the Mpilo One-Stop Centre is a step in the right direction, the Government must remain vigilant and responsive to the evolving needs of survivors.
Continuous training for service providers, regular assessments of the effectiveness of these centres, and the incorporation of survivor feedback into service delivery are essential to create a supportive environment that encourages healing and recovery.
The commitment of the Zimbabwean Government to combat GBV and support survivors is a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality and human rights. However, this commitment must be matched by action, accountability, and a genuine willingness to engage with the complexities of GBV.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence serves as a reminder that the fight against violence is ongoing and requires collective effort. By fostering collaboration, dismantling stigma, and ensuring accessibility to services, Zimbabwe can pave the way for a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from violence and fear.
The journey towards equality and justice is long, but with sustained commitment and collective action, a safer and more equitable society is within reach.
