Tanzania: We can end all sorts of Gender Based Violence (GBV) Campaign

A school-based GBV campaign in Mkuranga District helped students and teachers understand violence, change harmful behaviour and become Changemakers committed to creating safer learning environments for girls.

The project, implemented by COSUPED in five secondary schools in Mkuranga District, responded to alarming rates of verbal, physical and sexual violence against female students. Many girls faced harassment from boys, sexual exploitation from teachers, dropping out due to rape-related pregnancies and skipping classes because of fear. The campaign aimed to reduce GBV, raise awareness, shift behaviours and help girls return to school.

Change emerged through several activities. Students completed Changemakers Forms, where they reflected on their understanding of GBV, admitted past harmful behaviours and pledged to stop committing violence. A theatre group performed a drama about the consequences of sexual violence, helping students understand the seriousness of GBV. Trainings covered types of GBV, harassment, intimate partner violence and its negative effects.

Teachers and students responded positively. Many pledged to end GBV and share the campaign with others. At Kiparanganda Secondary School, ten girls who had dropped out due to harassment returned. At Mama Siti Mwinyi School, girls who avoided Mathematics because their teacher demanded sexual favours returned after he apologised and committed to change. Across the schools, cases of harassment, verbal abuse and sexual violence decreased. Girls who once feared school now feel safer and more confident.

This change is significant. The campaign spread to other schools and communities with support from district officials. The visibility of results encouraged more funding and strengthened partnerships. COSUPED has engaged with other organisations to scale the model to new regions, aiming to reach ten districts.

Sustainability will be ensured through continued collaboration with schools and authorities, monthly stakeholder meetings, strengthened referral pathways and expanded outreach. Development partners have increased funding, drama groups have committed to lower rates and communities are actively supporting the campaign.

Quotes: 

Mwajuma Rajabu & Hellen Titus - I used to skip Mathematics because the teacher demanded sex; now he has stopped. Boys who harassed me because of my body have also stopped.

Miriam Saleko - My brother used to beat me and wanted me to stop school. He is now supportive and even buys me textbooks.

Linda Gosheni - I got pregnant after being raped. Now I am back in school through the re-entry policy.