Join the Movement: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

By Ilyana Sithole

As Zimbabwe embarks on the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, let’s have in mind that this movement is not just a campaign; it is a call to action for every individual in our society. From November 25 to December 10, as reflections upon the solemn realities of GBV are made, let this be known: this fight concerns all of us-men, women, and children-who are in this struggle together to try and create a safer, more equal Zimbabwe.

Understanding the Scope of GBV
Gender-based violence does not discriminate in its victims; it affects both sexes, all ages, and people from all walks of life. In Zimbabwe, we have been faced with the horrific prevalence of domestic violence, sexual harassment, and even child abuse. But the narrative often relates to women being victims alone, while the real picture is that GBV can be committed by anybody against anybody. The increasing reported incidence of violence against men serves as a stark reminder that our concept of GBV needs to be broadened, and it requires an Attitudinal Change and Behavioral Response at all levels.

Breaking the Silence
One of the major impediments in the fight against GBV is that it often remains shrouded in silence. Victims or witnesses often feel ashamed or fear reprisals to report incidents. This is a culture of silence that needs to be torn down. Safe spaces should be provided, where open discussions on violence could be held without fear of retribution or guilt feelings when people give free descriptions of their ordeal. Community forums, education, and social media campaigns all stand to assume center-stage roles in breaking this silence and encouraging responsibility and support.

Engaging Men and Boys
To date, most discussions about GBV have involved women, relegating to the sidelines an equally important group of people: men and boys. It is time that this movement involves men as allies. This includes redefining unhealthy male norms and gender roles, thus promoting respectful relationships to challenge the sociocultural allowances that foster violence. These include campaigns that engage men in speaking out against violence and encourage them to support friends in recognizing signs of abusive behavior and ways to help them change such behaviors.

Education as an instrument of change
Education is one of the most powerful weapons in combat against GBV. We need to ingrain at school levels, through discussions in the school curricula, aspects of respecting gender equality so that future generations understand and have the wherewithal to challenge such deleterious stereotypes and behaviors. Workshops, seminars, and community outreach programs about their rights and the importance of consent educate both boys and girls, creating a new generation that actually fights against GBV.

Promote Access to Comprehensive Support Services
Access to comprehensive support services is important for victims and survivors of GBV. This ranges from medical and legal support to psychological support for survivors. Community-based shelters and One Stop Centres are necessary, where victims can receive holistic care. Community outreach can help raise awareness about the services available and provide an opportunity to seek these services without shame.

Collective Action for a Safer Future
The 16 Days of Activism are not just about awareness, but they’re really about mobilizing action. It is a reminder that each and every one of us has a role to play in fostering a culture that does not tolerate violence. No action is too small, whether through volunteering, standing in solidarity with survivors, or calling for stronger legal protections.

As we enter into these 16 days, let us promise to be active players in this movement. Let us take time to learn more about it, engage with our communities, and work together to nip the root causes of GBV. We can, together, build a Zimbabwe where everyone is safe, respected, and valued.

Join the movement. Say no to gender-based violence. Together, we can make a difference.