Government Calls for Collective Action Against GBV

Government has called for collective action to address teenage pregnancy, Gender Based Violence (GBV) and substance abuse among young people in Chadiza District. Speaking during an Adolescent Health Awareness Walk held in Chadiza under the theme “Breaking the Cycle: Preventing Teenage Pregnancy, GBV and Substance Use,” Acting District Commissioner (DC)Masauso Mwale said child marriages, drug abuse, school dropouts and sexual abuse continue to affect many young people. He said this in remarks made on his behalf by Chadiza District Community Development Officer, Charles Situmbeko.

The Acting DC said the challenges not only affect individual lives but also socio-economic development in the community. “I encourage parents, teachers, traditional leaders, religious leaders, health workers, cooperating partners and young people to continue working together to protect every adolescent,” he said. He mentioned that young people need safe spaces where they can learn, receive guidance, develop skills, access information and stay away from harmful activities.

Meanwhile, Chadiza District Health Director, Bless Shimuunza, said the awareness walk is worthwhile because it has brought positive change in Chadiza, specifically for adolescents. “We go round in different areas of Chadiza sensitizing adolescents,” he said.