Factors Contributing to Abuse in Zanzibar Laid Bare

By Issa Yussuf

Zanzibar — LACK of collective responsibility in parenting has been mentioned as the main reason behind increased abuse of children and women in Zanzibar.

Other barriers in the fight against violation of the rights of children and women in the islands include lack of effective laws in dealing with perpetrators, lack of social responsibility and laxity in enforcing the existing laws.

The barriers were unveiled at a meeting between journalists and activists held in Mwanakwerekwe area here, where a lawyer, Ms Amina Talib, said.

"There is insufficient commitment among responsible bodies, networking and seriousness in implementing the laws to control abuse against children and women."

The meeting, organized jointly by Care International Tanzania, Zanzibar Gender Coalition (ZGC), and Tanzania Media Women's Association (TAMWA), was among activities planned in marking the global 16 days of activism meant to raise awareness on how to stop abuse.

Talib's statement was echoed by activists Ms Asha Abdi, Ms Salama Saadat, Ms Asha Aboud, and Ms Shifa Ibuni, who emphasized the promotion of collective responsibility among members of the society against abuse. It was revealed that people living with disability, particularly mental disability, were highly abused.

It was also noted that defilement of male children was on the rise in Pemba island, while women still faced challenges in land ownership. "We want the government to spare no effort in solving these social problems so that women and children can live peacefully.

We should promote equal opportunity in land ownership, alongside fighting any abuse in the islands," the activists said. The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is an international campaign that starts on 25 November - the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - and ends on 10 December, Human Rights Day.

Source: allAfrica