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The rising cases of gender-based violence against children, particularly within families and communities, have become a major concern.
Many of these incidents involve extreme physical abuse, rape, defilement, early pregnancies, and even murder.
While the world continues to advocate for women’s, girls’, and children’s rights, it is crucial to emphasize the fight against gender-based violence and the protection of children, ensuring equality in all aspects.
Despite efforts by various organizations to educate communities about early pregnancies and child protection, legal barriers continue to hinder progress.
For instance, laws such as the Marriage Act allow girls under 14 years old to be married with parental or court consent.
Although the Court of Appeal ordered amendments to sections 13 and 17 of this law, the government remains silent while young girls continue to suffer.
Other laws, including the 2004 Employment and Labor Relations Act, also contribute to the exploitation of children, especially girls, leading to pregnancies, harassment, school dropouts, and even death.
Speaking during a gender-based violence awareness session for Form One students at Mbeya Day Secondary School, Feristar Wiston, a Community Development Officer from MIICO, stated that the Rural Women’s Platform works in various areas, including addressing gender-based violence.
She emphasized that combating violence is a continuous campaign. Last December, they conducted a similar campaign for students from Form One to Form Five. This year, they have returned to educate the newly enrolled Form One students.
“This was our work plan since last year when we first visited Mbeya Day Secondary School. The school principal requested that we return to provide education to the new Form One students, as they missed these lessons in their previous schools,” said Wiston.
She highlighted that the education provided helps students understand gender-based violence, recognize its warning signs, and know where to report such cases.
Mary Temba, the Deputy Principal of Mbeya Secondary School, expressed gratitude to the Rural Women’s Platform and MIICO for educating Form One students on gender-based violence.
She emphasized that these students are still young and need awareness on self-identity and protection against gender-based violence.
“We request that, whenever possible, you come again to provide this education. Our children are young and need to be enlightened about gender-based violence.
It happens at home, in school, and in the community, and knowing their rights and where to report such cases is crucial,” said Temba.
She urged other stakeholders to step forward and educate not only Form One students but all grade levels, as continued awareness is necessary given the current situation.
David Mtulo, an Assistant Police Inspector and Head of the Gender and Children’s Desk in Mbeya City, explained that their unit within the police force focuses on three main tasks: gender-based violence education, investigation of gender-related offenses such as rape, sodomy, and defilement, and providing psychological counseling to individuals facing challenges. The police collaborate with organizations like MIICO to enhance awareness campaigns.
Mtulo noted that the police have launched a campaign called "Speak Out Before They Destroy You," which was introduced in 2024.
This campaign targets Form One and Form Five students, as well as first-year students in higher education institutions.
He emphasized that providing continuous education in secondary schools is vital, especially for Form One students, to equip them with knowledge and protection against gender-based violence.
Regarding parental responsibility, Mtulo urged parents and guardians to take an active role in monitoring and guiding their children’s upbringing. He stressed that ensuring a child’s safety starts with proper parental care and supervision.
Debora Mwakimbombaki, a Form One student at Mbeya Secondary School, advised her peers to avoid engaging in adult activities, as they have severe consequences given their young age.
“Today, we have learned from the Rural Women’s Platform and MIICO that an 80-year-old man impregnated a 14-year-old girl. I urge my fellow students to put God first and be mindful of the paths they take,” she said.
Mwakimbombaki also pointed out that many children suffer in silence due to their parents’ absence. She explained that when parents return home late at night after children have already gone to bed, they miss the opportunity to discuss their challenges, leading to a lack of confidence in reporting abuse.
Gabriel Iman, another Form One student at Mbeya Secondary School, highlighted the psychological effects of gender-based violence.
He urged students to protect themselves and report any form of abuse immediately. “Gender-based violence is unfair and affects victims psychologically. We must stay safe and speak out whenever we experience such acts,” he stated.