By Admire Chitsungo
Sanyati District Development Coordinator Amigo Mhlanga has called on communities to move beyond symbolic gestures and take concrete action to address sexual and gender-based violence.
Speaking during Denim Day commemorations held at Cameroon Square on Wednesday, Mhlanga said the annual campaign should serve as a catalyst for sustained interventions rather than a once-off expression of solidarity.
“Clothing does not cause rape. Perpetrators do,” he said, urging a shift away from attitudes that blame victims and towards accountability for offenders.
Denim Day, observed globally, promotes support for survivors of sexual violence and raises awareness about harmful stereotypes linked to victim-blaming.
Mhlanga highlighted the need for practical measures, including improved reporting systems, youth education on consent and greater transparency in data collection to strengthen accountability. He said women and girls in particular continue to face harassment in public spaces, workplaces and homes.
Kadoma Mayor Nigel Ruzario, in a speech read by Deputy Mayor Alderman Michael Mvura, said sexual and gender-based violence remains underreported despite cases recorded by the Victim Friendly Unit.
“What someone wears is never an invitation to violence. Blame belongs with the perpetrator,” he said.
The mayor’s address outlined priorities such as expanding prevention programmes in schools, homes and workplaces and strengthening reporting and accountability mechanisms. Residents were also urged to challenge harmful behaviours and support survivors.
Kadoma City Gender Champion Councillor Takunda Mawire said rising reports of sexual offences point to persistent social norms that discourage survivors from coming forward.
“Behind each report is a person who had to decide whether coming forward would bring justice or more judgement,” he said.
Mawire said the city plans to scale up awareness campaigns across communities and institutions, with a focus on encouraging timely reporting of cases.
Adult Rape Clinic nurse counsellor Faustina Sombi emphasised the importance of accessible, survivor-centred services, including medical care, counselling and legal support.
She said delays and stigma often prevent survivors from seeking help.
The event brought together government officials, councillors, health workers and community members in a show of solidarity with survivors.
Organisers said the commemorations aimed to reinforce the need for sustained community action to prevent sexual and gender-based violence and support those affected.
