By: Mariama Njie
Fallu Sowe, coordinator OF Network Against Gender Based Violence Program, has said that violence against women has escalated alarmingly in The Gambia and the current situation of Gender Based Violence in the country is of great concern as reported cases are increasing, particularly sexual violence.
His comment comes as they observed 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November till 10th December. This year celebration is celebrating under the theme “Orange the world: End violence against women now.”
According to a survey conducted by Network Against Gender Based Violence shows that violence against women and children has escalated alarmingly during the pandemic.
“We can do a lot to reduce Gender Based Violence to a level of non-significant. These includes public education on GBV and its consequences, women and girl’s empowerment programs, redefining gender roles, addressing harmful traditional and cultural practices and promote gender equality,” he added.
His message to survivors of Gender Based Violence, as the 16 days of activism against women concluded is that survivors should know that they are not alone and are not to be blamed. Instead, it is the perpetrators who are to be blamed.
“They should be strong and be ready to report their cases. Also, to speak up against GBV in their communities,” he stated.
As for perpetrators his message to them is that they can run but cannot hide. One day they shall face justice especially repeated offenders.
Mariama Johm, acting national coordinator for Think Young Women said during the 16 days activism a lot of celebrations are done to eliminate violence against women worldwide.
It is also a strategy that civil society organization use around the globe to bring up advocacy issues, increase awareness and also to see that gender-based issues are addressed in all levels, she added.
It’s a young women led organization, formed in 2010 with the aim of providing safe spaces for young women and girls to be able to talk issues affecting their sexual and reproductive health rights, gender-based violence issues also women in leadership positions,
Ms. Johm believed that violence against women and girls can only end when there are strict laws enforced to protect women and girls, holding perpetrators accountable.
“If a perpetrator is been reported and nothing is been done about the case then the tendency of repeating it is very high.”
She stated that at her organization they believe stories of survivors and support them in the strive in making sure they live a new life.
Meanwhile, Musukuta Faal, a student of Journalism at the University of The Gambia said violating rights of women is a form of depriving them of their human rights.