Journal of
African Studies and Development

  • Abbreviation: J. Afr. Stud. Dev
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 2141-2189
  • DOI: 10.5897/JASD
  • Start Year: 2009
  • Published Articles: 240

Full Length Research Paper

In their own voices- understanding GBV in Zimbabwe: Evidence from a survivor’s perspective

Siziba Emmanuel
  • Siziba Emmanuel
  • Department of Sustainable Development, Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
  • Google Scholar
Mapuva Jephias
  • Mapuva Jephias
  • Department of Sustainable Development, Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
  • Google Scholar
Bowora John
  • Bowora John
  • Department of Sustainable Development, Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
  • Google Scholar
Samukange Tendai
  • Samukange Tendai
  • Department of Sustainable Development, Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
  • Google Scholar
Gomo Manford
  • Gomo Manford
  • Department of Sustainable Development, Bindura University of Science Education, P. O. Box 1020, Bindura, Zimbabwe.
  • Google Scholar


  •  Received: 26 September 2022
  •  Accepted: 08 November 2022
  •  Published: 30 November 2022

Abstract

Gender based violence against women is a prevalent public health challenge that poses a serious threat to women’s physical, social and mental health. Zimbabwe has taken proactive and reactive steps to deal with gender-based violence (GBV) through legislation and policies. Despite this seemingly conducive environment 1 in 3 women continue to experience GBV in Zimbabwe. While sustained research in the country indicate the risk factors associated with GBV that are driven from population surveys, few details survivors’ narratives and insights into this type of violence. This paper provides unique accounts of two women’s experiences in an abusive relationship as well as perspectives to better understand complexities and pervasiveness of GBV.

 

Key words: Gender based violence, coping strategies, physical violence, and emotional violence.