Over 1,000 cases of rape were recorded in Uvira in three months, underscoring the urgency of strengthening the fight against sexual and gender-based violence. During an awareness session organized by UFMP South Kivu, local leaders reaffirmed their commitment to prevent this violence and support survivors. They emphasize the importance of effective coordination between community actors and health structures for a rapid response.

In Uvira, local leaders are reaffirming their commitment to fighting sexual and gender-based violence. This position was expressed following an awareness session organized Tuesday by the Union of Women in the Media for Peace (UFMP South Kivu).

Held in the meeting room of the SYMUF in Kimanga, this activity is part of a campaign conducted by UFMP in the health zones of Uvira and Ruzizi, aimed at strengthening prevention and care for survivors.

Speaking, the coordinator of UFMP South Kivu, Joséphine Mungubi, recalled the objectives of this initiative, notably improving coordination between community actors and referral structures to ensure a rapid and effective response to cases of violence.

For her part, the representative of the head of the Gender, Family and Child bureau in the city of Uvira, Cécile Nyota, praised a "noble" initiative and assured her service's support for actions to combat gender-based violence.

Also speaking at this meeting, the supervising nurse of the Uvira health zone, Bitahwa Bonde Gwissi, painted a worrying picture of the situation. He reported over 1,000 cases of rape recorded between December and February, while noting that many cases remain unreported.

Faced with this reality, he stressed the necessity of directing survivors to health facilities within 72 hours for adequate care.

Furthermore, a WhatsApp group bringing together 25 participants was established to strengthen coordination and facilitate rapid, effective and confidential case management.

Composed of community liaisons, qualified nurses and heads of displaced persons and disaster victims sites, the participants committed themselves to intensifying awareness and prevention actions in their respective communities.

Prosper Aobe