Let’s raise our voices to stop gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) is one among the challenges facing our societies today. To deal with it, collective actions are a must.

GBV encompasses a wide range of abusive behaviours directed at individuals based on their gender.

It’s not just a personal issue but a societal one, deeply rooted in cultural and social norms.

Umoja wa Wanawake Tanzania (UWT) has initiated an anti-GBV campaign themed "Invest in Preventing Gender Violence".

This is great as it involves the community in tackling GBV. Let’s also invest a concerted effort from all corners of society to actively address it.

That includes families, educational institutions, workplaces, religious groups, and the government.

Each of these plays a crucial role in shaping the attitudes and behaviours that can contribute to preventing GBV.

A multidisciplinary approach is vital in this fight. For instance, education is a powerful tool in changing mindsets and breaking down the stereotypes and prejudices that often underpin GBV.

Let’s educate people about GBV and foster an environment of respect and equality.

Legal reforms are equally important. Laws need to be not just on paper but actively enforced, with perpetrators of GBV facing real consequences for their actions.

Cultural transformation is perhaps the most challenging aspect of addressing GBV as it involves changing deeply ingrained beliefs and practices that have been normalized over generations.

Ending GBV is a collective duty that requires active participation of all sectors. Everyone, regardless of gender, needs to feel safe, respected, and valued.

Supporting the campaign, Rosemary Senyamule, Dodoma, Regional Commissioner (RC), was quoted by the media emphasizing the severity of GBV: “It’s not just a fight; it’s a crusade for dignity and life.” Her words underscore the gravity of GBV and its impact on individuals and communities.

Senyamule's characterization of the struggle against GBV as a 'crusade' is apt.

It’s a long-term commitment that requires persistence, courage, and resilience.

This crusade is against the acts of violence and the attitudes and systems that allow them to continue. It’s a battle for dignity, the right of every individual to live a life free from fear and abuse.

In the fight against GBV, my special kudos go to Afande Msike who has gone further to the extent of releasing a song called Tambua wajibu wako, ilinde jamii yako (available on his Instagram account @afandemsike).

He further posted, “I will use all the ways and my talents which I was blessed by God with to ensure I reach the society and educate them…my song is called ‘realize your responsibility, protect your community, fight against brutality, because it has effects…raise your voice to stop brutality/cruelty.' His message is so strong to us.

The impact of GBV extends beyond the immediate harm to individuals. It affects also families and communities. It hinders economic development, undermines social cohesion, and perpetuates cycles of violence and inequality.

In this crusade, every action counts...speaking out against sexist remarks, supporting a friend/family member who has experienced violence, advocating for policy changes, and educating others about GBV, all contribute to the larger goal.

It's about changing the narrative of a person and a community at large.

Moreover, the role of men and boys in this fight is crucial. They need to be part of the conversation and actions to stop GBV and to be agents of positive changes.

This is because often they are the perpetrators, while women and girls are the victims.

The media also has a significant role to play in combating GBV. Responsible reporting can help raise awareness, change public perception, and encourage survivors to come forward.

Technology can also be a powerful ally in this crusade. Social media platforms, Apps, and other digital tools can help spread awareness, connect survivors with resources, and mobilize support for anti-GBV initiatives.