The Role of Culture on Violence against Women in Zimbabwe: A Case Study of Domboshava, Dunya Village

Abstract

This study focused on the role on culture on violence against women in Zimbabwe with a special focus on Domboshava, Dunya village. The study intended to help women who are subject to violence in respect for culture and to reveal the centrality of culture approach to development. The study also aimed to explore ways in which women are constrained in the economic, social, political, religious and cultural areas. The study also sought to find out if women are aware of the abuse that affects them in their culture and to explore on the cultural factors that affect women. The study also looked at the means of mitigating the impact of culture on women and the legal aspects that can address the issue on the role of culture on violence against women. The study further highlighted the society's perceptions and attitudes towards them.   The study later proposed strategies that emancipate on the role on culture on violence against women. Data was collected from twenty (20) women who participated in the study in Dunya village, Domboshava. A mixed methodology was used and a structured questionnaire and interview questions was used to collect data. The researchers' findings revealed that women are victims on violence and women tend to endure abusive marriages in respect of their culture and tradition. Women have tended to accept the abuse that they do not report the cases of abuse or violence. The researcher also noted that women are looked down upon and the society has a negative attitude towards them and these are deep rooted in socio-cultural and religious practices. Pursuant to the study, the researchers among other recommendations, recommended that there is a great need of effort to end violence against women and men should be involved .There is also need to promote and protect the economic, social and cultural rights of women; this therefore will provide a different opportunity for women in all sectors of life.