Story by Patience Nyagato
THE government has reiterated its commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) while also enhancing access to justice for survivors of the scourge.
The government continues to transform the way the justice delivery systems treat cases that include rape, child sexual exploitation, and other forms of violence against women and girls while promoting gender equality, social justice, and human rights.
In a media briefing in solidarity with the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence, Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi emphasised the government’s commitment to ending all forms of GBV.
“It has been our duty as Government to ensure that women are treated equally and have the same opportunities as men in all aspects of life. In the same vein, we have also made efforts to address critical issues such as child marriages, gender-based violence, and access to justice for all. Through various legislative reforms and awareness campaigns, we have successfully reduced the prevalence of child marriages and improved the legal framework to ensure the safety and well-being of women and girls.
“Additionally, we have established specialised courts and support services to provide victims of gender-based violence with the necessary resources and assistance to seek justice. One of our key achievements is the criminalization of child marriages through the Marriages Act, which has been a scourge on our society and a violation of the rights of young girls.
“We are also pushing for legislative reforms to fight violence against women and girls, including the criminalisation of sexual activity with a child under the age of 18. These efforts are aimed at creating a society where women and girls can live free from the fear of violence and exploitation. By addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and implementing strong legal measures, we are working towards a future where every individual can thrive and enjoy their fundamental rights.”
Among other strategies to eliminate the scourge, the government has enhanced women’s representation in judicial leadership, mainstreamed disability, and health rights in the justice system, and introduced several awareness programmes for women to know their rights.
