A New Dawn for GBV Survivors: Renovated Safe House Brings Hope to Tongogara Refugee Settlement in ZimbabweCommunity
By Isheunesu Gwasha (Programs Communications Officer)
In a significant milestone for the Tongogara Refugee Settlement (TRS), the newly renovated Safe House, facilitated by World Vision Zimbabwe, is now a sanctuary for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors. TRS Administrator, Isabel Chabatapere, described it as a place of healing where survivors can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. This initiative marks a crucial step in strengthening support systems for GBV survivors, ensuring they have a safe space to recover and restart their lives.
"For a long time, we longed for such a facility," said Lassane, 59, a GBV focal person. "Previously, survivors had nowhere to go, and focal persons had to shelter them in their homes. Now, with this generous gift from World Vision Zimbabwe, we finally have a dedicated space to provide proper care and support."
The Government of Zimbabwe, through the Settlement Administration, has welcomed this initiative, emphasising the importance of continued partnerships in the fight against GBV.
"We appreciate the partnership with World Vision Zimbabwe and look forward to working together to reduce GBV cases within the TRS community," said Isabel Chabatapere, TRS Administrator. "Let’s use this Safe House for its intended purpose and ensure cases are referred to the relevant offices for proper support."
The Safe House features two wings, each equipped with ablution facilities and running water, offering a comfortable and secure environment for survivors. Additionally, essential kitchen utensils, generously donated through World Vision’s Gift-In-Kind (GIK) model, with support from World Vision USA, have further enhanced the facility.
"We are grateful for the tiles and kitchen utensils donated through the GIK initiative, which have helped complete the renovation," said Maman Chike, a TRS Community Leader.
Historically, many women endured abuse in silence due to a lack of safe alternatives.
"Women used to keep quiet because they had nowhere to go, allowing the abuse to continue unchecked. We feared being accused of breaking marriages by taking them in," Lassane explained. "Now, the Safe House provides a crucial solution in safeguarding women and GBV survivors."
Despite progress, challenges remain. In January alone, the community recorded four new GBV cases, conducted 12 follow-ups and home visits, and held four forums for survivors. While men rarely report abuse, they still fear being ridiculed by the community. Additionally, cases of older women coercing young boys into sexual relationships highlight the ongoing need for awareness and intervention.
Among the survivors benefiting from the Safe House is Luísa*, a 37-year-old woman who has endured immense suffering. Trapped in an abusive marriage, she faced physical and emotional abuse while her husband controlled her income from bean production, leaving her financially helpless. She also suffered from sexually transmitted infections with no support or access to medical care.
"I feared for my life. I now sleep in a different room away from my husband to avoid further abuse," shared Luísa*. "But with the Safe House, I have hope. My advice to others is to always seek help and not to bottle up their stress."
As the community embraces this much-needed facility, stakeholders emphasise the importance of continued collaboration in tackling GBV.
"Let us work together to protect GBV survivors and ensure that no one suffers in silence," concluded Chabatapere.
With the Safe House now operational, there is renewed hope for GBV survivors in the TRS community. This facility is more than just a shelter—it is a symbol of resilience and transformation. Through continued collaboration, we can ensure that every survivor has the support they need to heal, rebuild, and thrive in a life free from violence.