SEXUAL violence remains a critical challenge tormenting many societies. In response, various stakeholders are intensifying efforts to combat this scourge through targeted campaigns.

One prominent player is a women-focused organisation (WAJIKI) which is spearheading a campaign titled—‘Safari Salama Bila Rushwa ya Ngono Inawezekana’ (Safe Journey without Sexual Corruption is Possible). Similarly, the police have launched their initiative; ‘Tumwambie Kabla Hajaharibiwa’ aimed at raising awareness and curbing sexual violence.

During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) that was commemorated recently in Dar es Salaam stakeholders united for demonstrations, carrying placards highlighting the consequences of such acts. 

WAJIKI partnered with police officers in Ilala District on the first day and with police officers in Kinondoni District on the second day, where regional police leaders shared updates on their campaigns' successes and challenges.

Recorded progress

Ilala Regional Police Commander ACP Yuston Mgonja reported notable decreases in violent crimes this year compared to previous years. However, rape remains alarmingly prevalent whereas despite remarkable successes the number of cases reported this year was 77 compared to 198 cases in 2023.

According to Mgonja, there were 87 sodomy cases in in 2023 compared to 51 in 2024.

Mgonja emphasized that a total of 25 culprits, mostly convicted of rape and sodomy, were arrested and arraigned. He said some were sentenced for 30 years while others received a life imprisonment punishment.

Kinondoni Regional Police Commander, Mtatiro Kitinkwi echoed similar concerns, urging collective action to combat sexual violence.

Despite progress, hurdles remain said Mgonja highlighting challenges such as delayed reporting of incidents, loss of critical evidence, and reluctance from witnesses to testify in court.

“Some parents and guardians opt to settle cases privately. When this fails, they report to the police too late, complicating investigations,” he noted.

Janeth Mawinza is the Founder and Director of WAJIKI; she pointed to community resistance and lack of cooperation. “While people voice their concerns, they often fail to support legal processes when action is taken,” she said.

WAJIKI’s campaign

WAJIKI has been running its campaign across Kinondoni, Ilala, and Temeke districts in Dar es Salaam Region targeting groups such as ‘boda boda’ riders, bajaj drivers, ‘daladala’ operators, teachers, students, and local leaders. 

The initiative seeks to eliminate sexual corruption, a prevalent form of sexual violence.

The campaign’s sixth phase, launched in Bunju A Ward, Kinondoni District focuses on raising awareness to 100,000 pupils about the dangers of sexual corruption. Supported by Women Fund Tanzania Trust (WFT-T) with a grant of 80m/-.

The two years campaign, will aims at providing education to 35,000 students,100 teachers and 200 drivers in each ward within the targeted districts.

Apart from combating sexual corruption, WAJIKI is encouraging women to vie for leadership positions in the coming 2025 general elections, fostering empowerment alongside awareness.

A call for unity

As the campaigns continue, collaboration between community members, law enforcement, and organizations like WAJIKI underscores the importance of a united front against sexual violence. Their efforts serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that change is possible through education, vigilance, and collective action.