The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has urged government institutions, law-enforcement agencies and civil society to intensify efforts to combat cyber-enabled gender-based violence, warning that digital spaces have increasingly become unsafe for women and girls.
In an interview with this publication yesterday, ZGC Chief Executive Officer Virginia Muwanigwa said the growing prevalence of online abuse requires urgent and coordinated national action, particularly as perpetrators continue to exploit social media and digital communication platforms.
“We are deeply concerned by the surge in digital gender-based violations, which are causing real psychological, social and economic harm to survivors.
Online abuse is not harmless. It affects livelihoods, undermines confidence and silences women’s participation in public life. Zimbabwe must treat this as a serious human-rights and security issue,”she said
She emphasised the need to strengthen investigative capacity within the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
“We urge the ZRP to enhance its cybercrime investigation capabilities so that perpetrators are identified, arrested and prosecuted. Survivors need assurance that reporting will lead to meaningful action, not frustration,”Muwanigwa said
The ZGC CEO also called for improved multi-stakeholder coordination across government, justice institutions, regulators and digital platforms.
“Cyber-GBV cannot be addressed by one institution alone. We need harmonised systems, specialised units, digital evidence tools and clear referral pathways. This collaboration is essential for timely investigations and survivor protection,”she said
Muwanigwa appealed to civil society to expand support services for victims of online abuse, noting that many survivors struggle with trauma, fear and stigma.
“We encourage civil society organisations to scale up counselling, legal aid and safe reporting mechanisms. Survivors should never suffer in silence. They must know help is available and accessible,” she noted
She further urged media practitioners to uphold ethical and gender-sensitive reporting standards, warning that irresponsible online engagement can amplify harm.
“Media houses and content creators must avoid sensationalism and victim-blaming. Responsible communication is vital in shaping safer digital environments,” she said
The Commission also reiterated its commitment to continuous engagement with regulators such as the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to develop stronger frameworks that curb digital abuse.
“Our aim is to ensure that Zimbabwe’s digital transformation leaves no one behind, and that online spaces remain safe and empowering for all,” Muwanigwa said.
The call comes as the country is marking 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, which began on the 25th of last month and runs till the 10th of this month.
