Zambian guys have a very bad rap when it comes to treating their women well. In fact, Zambia ranks as one of worst countries for men using violence against women. This news comes at the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The global campaign ends on 10 December, Human Rights Day.
Africa has the highest incidence of physical and sexual violence against women in the world. Forty-six percent of women on the continent have experienced this type of violence. Globally the number is 35%. And Zambia ranks as one of the worst in Africa! According to a survey conducted in 6 countries, the highest incidence of GBV was in Zambia with 89% of women surveyed in Kasama, Kitwe, Mansa and Mazabuka reporting having been victims.
What is GBV?
Many people think it only happens when violent men beat up or rape their wives after a drunken night out. But it is more than that. Sociology Professor Mwizenge Tembo gave the following description of types of GBV to the Lusaka Times: GBV includes sexual violence, femicide (female killing); battery (which is common in Zambia); property grabbing after the death of a spouse; and rape in and outside marriage. Sexual harassment is a form of GBV; as are beating of women perceived to be improperly dressed, forced prostitution, sexual cleansing, trafficking in women and children for immoral activities, and finally forced abortion.
The worst news? Most of this abuse is done someone the women know - most often a family member or partner.
Spend these 16 Days thinking about the violence you have seen against women and children in your community. It is a crime. Report it. Stand up and say ‘No!’