DESPITE relentless efforts by Government to fight Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the country I realise that the scourge is still on the increase with many of those on the receiving end being women.
In this vein, I will reflect on GBV cases that have continued to take place around the country in an effort to confirm that the scourge still needs serious attention before more women lose their lives.
Among the recent GBV cases recorded in the last few weeks include the murder of two women by their husbands from Central Province.
One of the women, in the Mkushi incidence identified as Mercy Mwape sustained a swollen head, bruised face and cuts on her lips.
I feel such horrific acts should no longer be entertained in the Zambian society.
The killing of the Mkushi women came barely 48 hours after another woman of Mumbwa was murdered by her husband using a shovel and concrete blocks.
Agreeably, what was saddening is that GBV cases continue to occur despite numerous efforts being made by the Government to fight this scourge in the country.
In 2013, the picture was no different as a number of women suffered at the hands of men with others losing their lives.
However, some sections of society have argued that GBV cases in the country especially against women are exaggerated and that what was being reported on was just on paper and not reality on the ground.
I am in disagreement with this assertion; however what is true is that some men indeed are also victims of GBV but are usually reluctant to report.
Really, it is misleading for a one to suggest that GBV against women in Zambia was exaggerated as cases against women being battered are reported everyday and confirmed by the police.
In fact, Gender links, revealed no too long ago that Zambia had the highest cases of violence against women in Southern Africa The Minister of Gender Inonge Wina also revealed that Gender cases in
Zambia had increased most of which she said were against women.
Given this background, what is important to ensure that horrific acts against women come to an end is by stakeholders in the fight coming together to partner with the government.
Agreeably, the current situation were innocent people are losing their lives can no longer be condoned.
GBV, it must be noted is not only a violation of human rights but also has lifelong economic and health implications on the survivors.
Therefore the Church, as Ms Wina said should join in the fight against GBV and aim to fight all kinds of discrimination against women in the country.
Indeed, the church should take a stance against GBV and prevent the vice through teachings, counseling and sensitisation.
Admittedly, the Church through teachings can help bring respect between couples, partners, and families.
It is the church that can also help preach against cultural practices that significantly contribute to the abuse of women and girls.
Apart from the Church, Non Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) dotted around the country should also step in the fight against GBV.
Community outreach programs in this regard are required in an effort to reach the masses in communities.
The Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) in this regard is currently doing well following the introduction of the good husband’s initiative aimed at fight GBV in the respective communities where they save.
Efforts by YMCA are indeed commendable and an appeal can only made to other NGO’s to emulate such works to help fight GBV in communities.
In conclusion, I must mention that the fight against GBV can only be won if all stakeholders work together.
It is only collective efforts required in fighting this scourge on the part of

the Zambian society.
For comments nanamufaya@gmail.com