UNICEF and Zambia say ‘just stop it’ to gender-based violence

Hilde Johnson talks to a participant in a UNICEF-sponsored programme for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. [File Photo]

30 October 2009 – A new campaign in Zambia backed by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) calls for an end to gender-based violence, the second biggest scourge in the nation, following HIV and AIDS, according to the African nation’s leader.

President Rupiah Bwezani Banda launched the campaign – whose theme is “Abuse, Just Stop It” – yesterday in the capital, Lusaka, declaring zero tolerance for perpetrators of sexual- and gender-based violence.

UNICEF expressed its support to ensure that women and children are protected from violence.

“This requires action and commitment from all levels of Zambian society,” said Elspeth Erickson, UNICEF’s Deputy Representative in the country.

Dual Owusu-Sarfo, acting UN Resident Coordinator, hailed Zambia’s commitment to tackle gender imbalances and to “accord women and men equal rights and opportunities in development.”

This commitment, he said, is evidenced by the nation’s signing of international and regional treaties including the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The campaign will include road shows held in five districts, school debates, drama shows and a mobile video van that will show films and documentaries on gender-based violence.

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