OVER 10,000 cases of Gender Based violence (GBV) have been recorded in Southern Province this year while 24,000 teenage pregnancies have been recorded in seven districts of the province. 

Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, said it is disheartening to note that while the government is making an effort to promote the girl child education, GBV continues to frustrate its effort.

Mr Nanjuwa however said the government is keen to ensure that women and girls are given an enabling environment in which they can realize their full potential without hindrance.

Mr Nanjuwa was speaking in a speech read on his behalf by Southern Province Assistant Secretary Edson Nachimwenda, in Namwala during the launch of the 16 days of Gender Activism against Gender Based violence (GBV)z

The Minister added that the government stands ready to support all programs that aim at addressing gender inequalities which are the major drivers of GBV.

“Fighting GBV requires efforts from everyone and it starts from our home setting and this is why the government is implementing different programs to help women and girls in our society,” Mr Nanjuwa said. 

Southern Province Principal Gender Officer, Doreen Chingobe also highlighted some of the programs the government is implementing to fight GBV in districts like Namwala, Choma and Monze districts.

Ms Chingobe said in the province over 30 women cooperative groups have been empowered with resources and truckers for agriculture activities. 

And Namwala District Commissioner Ephraim Shandavu disclosed that GBV and teenage pregnancies are rampant in the district.

Mr Shandavu said traditional norms have also contributed to the increase in GBV cases as many women and girls fear for their lives.

“Our women and girls are silent and we need to sensitize them to come out and report GBV cases to save their lives” Mr Shandavu said. 

And the Victim Support Unit encouraged the people not to fear the police but to be free and report cases of GBV.