In recent weeks, the media and social networks have been reporting an alarming increase in child disappearances and other forms of abuse. This situation has caused widespread panic and prompted authorities, including the police force, to issue various statements.
While authorities are working tirelessly to address this crisis, it is imperative that we as a society come together to understand the problem, prevent it, and support those affected. With around 27.6 million children, our nation is blessed with a precious resource for tomorrow. Regrettably, a substantial number of them face numerous obstacles.
Statistics from the Legal and Human Rights Center (LHRC) paint a disturbing picture, with children comprising a disproportionate number of violence victims. Almost half of the reported violence is directed at children (45 per cent), followed by women, people with disabilities, the elderly, and men.
Most of these abuse cases are sexual in nature. In 2019, over 27,000 cases were reported, followed by nearly 28,000 in 2020 and around 20,000 in 2021. Additionally, in 2023, the Minister of Community Development, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, reported that police recorded over 15,000 incidents of violence against children between January 2022 and March 2023.
The main reason for this is children’s vulnerability. Abusers feel powerful and authoritative over children because they cannot defend themselves. Other factors include cultural practices and legal loopholes. Laws have flaws, especially regarding child marriage and preventing child labour. For example, no one questions the age of house girls or boys.
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It is deeply troubling that many in our society choose not to utilise the formal justice system to address the pervasive issue of child sexual abuse. Some families opt to handle these horrific incidents privately rather than reporting them to authorities. This often stems from feelings of shame and embarrassment when such crimes occur within a family, leading to the concealment of the abuse.
Poverty has also contributed significantly to the increase in these acts. For example, child-on-child abuse may be influenced by seeing parents engage in behaviours that a child should not witness. Eventually, the child may try to replicate these actions with another child.
There is also hidden abuse that society does not often discuss, such as psychological-based violence, like a child being bullied at school and losing self-esteem, and cyberbullying.
Some people go online and start engaging with children without their parent’s knowledge. Children are also exposed to age-inappropriate content online. Some have found themselves lured by criminal groups and raped.
A chilling reality is that children are most frequently abused by people they know and trust. This includes those in positions of authority or care, such as teachers, religious leaders, and even family members like parents, siblings, and extended kin. This horrifying problem is rooted in children’s natural inclination to trust familiar figures.
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Unfortunately, this trust is frequently exploited, leaving children vulnerable to abuse.
As a society, we must adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards child abuse. This despicable crime cannot be tolerated.
Perpetrators, regardless of their relationship to the child, must face the full consequences of their actions. There can be no safe haven for those who harm our children.
A word of advice to parents. They ought to pay close attention to their children’s behaviour. Don’t force the issue if they suddenly resist going to school, church, or mosque. Instead, try to understand their reluctance.
Building a strong, trusting relationship with your child is crucial. Guide them through puberty’s physical and emotional changes, and be mindful of their friendships and online activities. By being involved and observant, you can help protect them from harm.
Government action is equally crucial in combating child abuse. Strict enforcement of existing laws and increased funding for prevention programs and support services are essential.
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Law enforcement agencies must be equipped to handle these cases effectively. Moreover, long-term support for survivors should be a priority, ensuring they have access to comprehensive care to help them heal and rebuild their lives.
Gertrude Abel, a lawyer with the LHRC, highlights the importance of looking beyond punishment. She emphasises the need for comprehensive support services for victims of abuse.
“After a rape incident, for instance, what kind of assistance is available to the survivor?” Ms Abel questioned during our recent conversation. “How can we help them recover from such trauma?”
She underscores the importance of focusing on the long-term well-being of survivors, stating, “Let’s pay attention to helping them rebuild their lives and create a brighter future for the children who have endured abuse.”
Our organisation, Global Peace Foundation Tanzania, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about violence against children and its devastating consequences. We work closely with communities nationwide to educate people about child protection and advocate for safe environments where children thrive.
Hussein F. Sengu is the Country Director for the Global Peace Foundation
Tanzania. He’s available at hsengu@globalpeace.org. The opinions expressed here are the writer’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Chanzo. If you are interested in publishing in this space, please contact our editors at editor@thechanzo.com.
