The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
THE Government, in partnership with civil society groups and other development partners, has constructed 23 safe houses to shelter gender-based-violence (GBV) victims around the country.
Speaking during debate on ending gender-based violence in the National Assembly last week, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said her ministry noted the need to set up safe houses in all constituencies around the country.
“With regards to the recommendation that the Government put in place safe houses in every ward and constituency, the ministry notes that it is ideal that the Government establishes safe houses in every ward, in all constituencies, as highlighted.
“The issue of safe houses is very critical,” she said.
“We want our women and children, when they are abused, to be able to know that they can move out.
“You cannot expect them to just go to police and they go back to the perpetrators. The issue of safe houses is critical.
“We have already done a lot in that area but much more needs to be done.”
The 23 safe shelters have been set up in places like Muzarabani, Mbire, Murewa, Buhera, Bocha, Mutare, Mutasa, Hurungwe, Masvingo, Bikita, Gutu, Mwenezi, Mazowe, Gweru, Bulawayo, Gwanda, Tsholotsho, Hwange, Gokwe, Harare, Chivhu, Umzingwane and Bubi.
Minister Mutsvangwa also said there was need for the Government to dedicate resources towards running safe houses and supporting their operations to ensure continuity in the event that partners would no longer be available.
There was need, she added, to have specialised courts that deal with sexual offences.
“Special and separate courts for sexual offences should be created to provide for the protection of victims by having in-camera court sessions and dedicated sexual offensive courts to expedite the sentencing of cases.”
Minister Mutsvangwa also highlighted the need to recommend lessons on GBV starting at ECD (early childhood development) level.
