Zimbabwe Launches Revised Sexual Violence Care Guidelines to Strengthen Survivor Support

HARARE – The Government of Zimbabwe has launched revised clinical guidelines for the care and management of survivors of sexual violence, a move aimed at strengthening the country's response to gender-based violence and equipping health workers with updated tools to provide comprehensive, survivor-centred care.

The revised sexual violence clinical guidelines were unveiled in Harare on Thursday by Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora, who said the new framework reinforces Zimbabwe's commitment to ensuring that survivors receive timely, professional, and dignified support.

The updated guidelines build on existing protocols that require healthcare services to be delivered in a manner that prioritises dignity, confidentiality, privacy, and informed consent. Under the framework, survivors of sexual violence are entitled to receive medical care free of charge and do not require a police report before accessing treatment.

The revised guidelines introduce a standardised approach for the management of sexual violence cases across Zimbabwe's healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive consistent care regardless of where they seek assistance. Importantly, the framework recognises that survivors of sexual violence include women, girls, men, and boys of all ages, broadening the scope of care and protection available through public health institutions.

Speaking at the launch, Mombeshora said the guidelines must deliver tangible improvements in the experiences of survivors seeking help.

"We are not merely launching a document. We are strengthening Zimbabwe's commitment to ensure that every survivor of sexual violence receives timely, professional, compassionate and dignified care," he said.

The Minister noted that while women and girls continue to be disproportionately affected by sexual violence, the revised policy deliberately acknowledges that men and boys can also be victims and should have equal access to care and support services.

"Males who experience sexual violence are entitled to the same quality of care, support, and protection as any other survivor," Mombeshora said.

Health experts have increasingly called for inclusive approaches to sexual violence response programmes, arguing that stigma often prevents male survivors from reporting abuse or seeking medical assistance.

The revised Zimbabwe sexual violence management guidelines are also expected to improve coordination between multiple agencies involved in responding to cases of abuse. These include the police, social welfare services, the judiciary, local authorities, healthcare institutions, and community-based support structures. Officials say improved collaboration will help strengthen referral systems, enhance survivor protection, and ensure more effective access to justice and psychosocial support.

The launch comes as Zimbabwe continues efforts to combat gender-based violence and improve access to essential services for survivors. Public health specialists have long emphasised that prompt medical treatment following sexual violence is critical, not only for addressing physical injuries but also for preventing infections, providing psychological support, and collecting forensic evidence where necessary. The revised guidelines are expected to serve as a key resource for healthcare workers, ensuring that survivors receive comprehensive care that is professional, compassionate, and aligned with international best practices.

Sexual violence care guidelines Zimbabwe