Gender Based Violence (GBV) is not openly discussed as it should be as compared to how many cases are reported globally. The rate at which young people and women are verbally, emotionally and physically abused is very wrong and needs to be thoroughly checked and curbed. A young woman in Uganda is aiming to solve this issues by beating a 100 young men by the end of 2026. But does violence end violence in perpertuity?

The statistics

According to research by Vanguard News, in Sub-Saharan Africa, studies across 25 countries estimate that about 45% of women have experienced some form of gender-based violence in all forms, thus, physical, sexual, psychological, or economic.

Causes

Some of the causes of gender based violence include, poverty, mistrust, substance abuse, low self esteem, illiteracy and so on. Poverty which is the major cause of abuse in most homes, is seen as a way to let out anger and frustration on the other parties involved. As for illiteracy, most people are ignorant of the abuse they are causing others because it is what they observed growing up.

Effects

Victims of gender based violence often feel deep sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in things they once enjoyed. They may constantly feel afraid, nervous, or unsafe, even when the danger is no longer present. Many survivors experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma symptoms such as, flashbacks of the event and nightmares. Others deal with it by avoiding places or people that remind them of the abuse.

Solutions

In conclusion, gender-based violence affects both the mind and body. Psychologically, it can lead to trauma, depression, and anxiety. Physiologically, it can cause injuries, chronic health problems, and stress-related illnesses. To solve this, one needs to seek help from mentors and find a safe space where one can positively thrive.