Nearly half of Zimbabwean women suffer from GBV
NEARLY half of Zimbabwean women have experienced gender-based violence (GBV), with many suffering abuse at the hands of those closest to them, European Union (EU) ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann has said.
Speaking after a HeForShe march against GBV recently held in Harare, Kirchmann said 42.5% of women in the country have been subjected to some form of GBV, which shows a deep-rooted crisis that continues to affect families and communities.
“The numbers are alarming, 42.5% of women in Zimbabwe experience GBV, often at the hands of those closest to them. That means almost every second woman you see here today has experienced GBV.
“Today, we are not just marching, we are making a statement. A statement that GBV has no place in our homes, workplaces, communities, or public spaces,” Kirchmann said.
The EU ambassador also urged boys and men to respect women and girls.
“Men, I want to speak directly to you. We need to do better. Most cases of GBV are caused by men, and this must stop.
“Let us start by treating women and girls with dignity and respect, by listening to their voices, valuing their contributions, and standing up against violence wherever we see it.
“Let us be role models for the boys and young men in our lives.Together, we can break the cycle of violence,” he added.
HeForShe movement, which was launched by UN Women in 2014, calls on men and boys to join the fight for gender equality not as bystanders, but as active partners and advocates.