Adults’ Voices: Understanding and External Experiences

Risk Factors

“Many stepmothers mistreat their stepchildren because they themselves are mistreated and unloved by their husbands.”
— 33-year-old female, parent-entrepreneur

“Some men believe that having sex with both wife and daughter brings wealth, but such acts lead to maternal and antenatal deaths, not forgetting sexually transmitted diseases.”
— 50-year-old female, Gender and Youth Advisor (NGO)

“Access to justice is difficult because most abusers are relatives; uncles, brothers, or cousins. Parents fear shame and stop children from reporting. Even in court, relatives refuse to testify.”
— 32-year-old male, GBV–VAC Police Officer

“Some laws contradict each other. The Child Law allows marriage at 15, but the Education Law says 18. This confusion denies justice. Laws must favour children and address the harm of exposure to violence.”
— 50-year-old female, Gender and Youth Advisor (NGO)

“Those with financial power control what happens in court. Justice depends on money.”
— 67-year-old male, Counselling Psychologist

Protective Factors

“When there is love in the family, there is no violence. The fear of God, mutual respect, and appreciation bring peace.”
— 39-year-old male, Ten-Cell Leader

“Sex brings harmony — but only when the woman consents. Faith helps couples stay together, yet women must also have a say, especially for the sake of their children.”
— 50-year-old female, Gender and Youth Advisor (NGO)