Unicef: Abuses ‘endless’ in African conflict zones
Most African nations remain in the watchlist with numerous cases of abuse. Rape cases and sexual violence against children and women are like diseases that are prevalent in African conflict zones. Such reports were recently reported by United Children’s Fund (Unicef), saying the number of abuses is like an epidemic that destroys human dignity as victims are savaged by their sexual offenders.
Deputy executive director Hilde Johnson said rape is a common offense in poor countries experiencing conflicts and natural disasters. Apparently, sexual offenders have made the innocent bodies of their victims as their escape goat from the real hardships of life. Since they can’t do something about their situation, sexual gratification in the form of illicit sex becomes their outlet for release.
Reports claimed in Democratic Republic of Congo alone, most victims start from infants to octogenarians. Many suffer from genital mutilation and sexual abuse. In response to this, Unicef is appealing to raise funds of about $856 million to give the victims of tragic experiences assistance in 39 countries worldwide. The executive director said that in the case of Kenya conflict, rape and sexual violence are alarming as the number of cases double each day. In Liberia and Sudan, rape is believed to be used as a weapon in victimizing the children and women. Unicef criticized cases of rape used as a weapon that spreads from armies and militias to the civilians during conflicts and civil wars. The powerless group such as the children and women will always be the victims and this practice will continue unless authorities and families do something about it. She said collapsing societies seem to be the source of loopholes enabling rape cases to take place effortlessly. This scenario, as a whole, is making the condition in African states an epidemic in nature.
Unicef is recently appealing for US$ 106 million financial assistance for Congo citizens’ basic needs and some funds for the rape victims. This is just an initial step to rehabilitate the worst cases of Congo victims. Unicef alone cannot provide what these African states need. The population of refugees and victims is far larger than the assistance that they get. As things are left unattended, the old practice of abusing children and women become a common thing. More than the physical abuse, such exploitation may not be easily eradicated in the minds of the victims. As this happens, the citizens become corrupted and would be hopeless in looking for better solutions.
How can peace be brought to these nations if there seems to be a few who are helping them survive? Do we really mind about their welfare? Everyone can help if only you are willing. Let their stories be heard and let action plans be prepared to restore their dignity as human beings.