Zanzibar records 14 pc rise in GBV cases

ZANZIBAR: THE Office of the Chief Government Statistician (OCGS) in Zanzibar has called for stronger public cooperation and innovative strategies to curb acts of abuse, following a rise in reported cases of gender based violence.

In a press briefing, OCGS revealed that reported incidents increased by 14.1 per cent in January 2026, reaching 113 cases compared to 99 cases in December last year.

Presenting the January 2026 Gender-Based Violence Statistics Report, Government Statistician in the Gender and Labour Statistics Division, Mr Ahmada Hassan Suleiman, stressed the need for concerted efforts to eliminate harmful behaviours and strengthen collaboration in ending abuse.

Of the 113 victims recorded in January, children accounted for 91 cases, representing 80.5 per cent.

Women accounted for 20 victims (17.7 per cent), while two victims were men. District-wise, Magharibi A recorded the highest number of cases with 23 (20.4 per cent), followed by Mjini District with 18 cases (15.9 per cent).

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Kusini District reported the lowest number, with two cases (1.8 per cent).

The report further shows that 101 of the 113 cases (89.4 per cent) are currently under police investigation.

Six cases (5.3 per cent) have been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, three cases have been closed, and two have been issued charge sheets, with one already before the court.

OCGS reiterated the need for collective responsibility in addressing genderbased violence and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly children.