GYM – Transformative Youth-Led Prevention & Gender Based Violence (GBV) Response Project

In October 2022 Ubunthu with support from Global Youth Mobilization (GYM) implemented the Transformative Youth Led Prevention and Gender Based Violence (GBV) Response Project in Choma.

The project aims at responding to social injustices which have developed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ubunthu through this project enhanced women and youth led COVID-19 response and protection. It created awareness around GBV prevention and protection during and in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

When movement was restricted during the pandemic, people were confined, protection systems were weakened. Young women and girls were at greater risk of experiencing GBV. The threat of harmful practices including child abuse and early and forced marriages increased. Ubunthu together with Zambia Police Victim Support Unit and Social Welfare sensibilized community members, especially young women and girls, in three communities by offering free basic legal information and education, orientation and referral services. Young women and girls, who are vulnerable to increased cases of GBV in the wake of the pandemic were also informed about the available Sexual Gender-Based Violence support services, where to seek help and how at-risk individuals can access these services.

The meetings were held in Zambia Compound of Mubula Ward, Kamunza and Simacheche of Choma. Ubunthu also partnered with a local radio station in airing sensitization messages and programmes aimed at raising awareness.