Tanzanian announces on zero-tolerance for rapists, gender-based violence

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has strongly condemned rape and gender-based violence that result in victims becoming pregnant, urging parents, relatives and the public not to interfere with legal proceedings in rape and sodomy cases to ensure victims obtain justice and perpetrators are held accountable under the law.

Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Engineer Maryprisca Mahundi, made the remarks while responding to a question from Special Seats Member of Parliament Hawa Chakoma, who sought the government’s position on continuing rape cases that result in victims becoming pregnant.

 Mahundi stressed that the government was continuing to strengthen the enforcement of laws protecting children from abuse, including rape and sodomy.

 According to the government’s response, a total of 7,219 rape cases were reported and handled between January and December 2025. The figures underscore the need to strengthen measures to combat such crimes and ensure victims receive appropriate care and protection.

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 The government is also continuing to educate the public on preventing violence and improving support services for victims through Social Welfare Offices, Gender and Children’s Desks at police stations, and local government offices.

 Mahundi further urged parents and relatives not to interfere in rape and sodomy cases before the courts and other legal authorities, including by obstructing the presentation of evidence or pressuring parties in ways that could undermine the administration of justice.

 The government also called on the public to report cases of abuse and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing evidence to help ensure perpetrators are held accountable.

 Members of the public can report abuse through the Police Gender and Children’s Desk hotline at 0699 913200 or by calling 116, the child protection helpline, whenever they need to report violence against children.