'Over 900 sexual abuse cases reported in Zimbabwe monthly'

15 cases of sexual abuse are reported in each district in Zimbabwe while most of the cases are children in need healthcare.

These statistics were revealed by the country’s deputy health minister Aldrin Musiiwa on Monday in Harare during the launch of guidelines against sexual violence.

“There are 63 districts, meaning that monthly, 945 new cases are attended to. Note, this is exclusive of the five provincial hospitals, the five central hospitals and city health institutions,” local media News Day quotes the deputy health minister who advised victims to report the incident within 72 hours.

“It is crucial that when a survivor reports to the health institution first, without a police report, the survivor should never be denied access to health intervention. This is in the best interest of the survivor’s health and not to lose them within the recommended 72 hours,” he advised.

He stressed on the 72 hours timeframe to help minimize chances of pregnancy and contracting HIV and STIs.

Aldrin Musiiwa attributed the large number of victims to, among others, increased awareness of the need to report incidents.

He maintained that the numbers are worrisome.