Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
IN a bid to tackle the pervasive issue of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Zimbabwe, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Zimbabwe Cricket and the Adult Rape Clinic have joined forces with various government ministries to launch the #72Hours Campaign.
The #72 hours Campaign initiative aims to improve reporting of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence incidents within 72 hours, ensuring survivors have access to life-saving services, including medical treatment and psychological support.
The campaign, a collaboration between UNFPA, Zimbabwe Cricket, the Adult Rape Clinic, and various government ministries, aims to reduce barriers faced by survivors in seeking timely assistance.
“Sexual assault is high among 11 to 16 year olds, and it is very sad to note that only 35 percent of survivors access treatment. We have 65% of those affected failing to access these critical services. So #72 is not just a timeline. Let’s join hands and support survivors of sexual assault. Survivors do not need to suffer in silence,” Adult Rape Clinic Director, Ms Maceline Mukwamba said.
“EU is committed to supporting the development of Zimbabwe. We are committed to fighting gender based violence. Sport is an important vehicle to engage everyone,” the Acting Chief Directo forr Policy and Planning in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Mr Stephen Banda added.
“Sexual gender based violence is not only a health challenge but a human right violation, it has far reaching consequences as survivors often face far reaching consequences,” Head of Corporation for the EU, Mr Frank Porte noted.
“Sport is a unifier, educator and influencer, it has the power to change perceptions that is why we as Zimbabwe Cricket has decided to join forces with UNFPA and other partners to spread the message and fight SGBV,” Zimbabwe Cricket managing director Mr Givemore Makoni said.
UNFPA East and Southern Africa Regional Director Ms Lydia Zigomo reaffirmed her organisation’s support in supporting sgbv survivors.”
“UNFPA is happy to have contributed to the technical development of guidelines that assist countries as they design, implement, and review services for survivors of GBV. The essential services package for women and girls subjected to violence is one such guidance, providing a practical tool on how to ensure the provision and coordination of quality services of all relevant sectors.
“I am happy Zimbabwe has fully embraced these guidelines in informing GBV response, particularly, multi sectoral service provision. Ensuring timely access to critical, life-saving services following gender-based violence of any kind, including sexual violence, is a key step in ensuring recovery by survivors.
“The 72-hour window, as already alluded to is therefore a critical factor in ensuring lifesaving health services. We will work together to end gbv and all harmful practices we should ensure that survivors get timely quality services,” she said.
Using sport as a platform to raise awareness and promote action, the #72Hours campaign aims to create a more supportive environment for survivors of SGBV by promoting awareness, challenging societal norms, and strengthening support services.
