IMPORTANCE OF PYCHOSOCIAL CARE AND SUPPORT (Pss) to children affected by violence in tanzania presented at: regional psychosocial support forum- victoria falls, zimbabwe KANDURU HUSSEIN ALLY

Introduction Tanzania Geographical Location

Population (50% are Children)

The 2009 National Survey on VAC in Tanzania estimated that:  more than quarter of girls (28%) and 13% of boys have experienced sexual violence, mainly in their homes.  About 73% of girls and 72% of boys experienced physical violence, mostly in the form of being punched, whipped, or kicked, and the majority (60%), by a relative.  One-quarter of Tanzanian Children, both boys and girls, had experienced emotional violence in different forms (e.g feeling of being unwanted, threatened, or abandoned).

The influence of Poverty and Culture on Violence Against Children (VAC)  Children may be forced to become commercial sex workers.  Children working as house workers,  Poverty increase number of street children  Forced early marriages (Dowry).  Cultural beliefs

 In most cases in Tanzania, the interventions of VAC tends to focus on punishing the abuser and forget about the abused child.  Both the perpetrator and the abused child need PSS to prevent violence in future and also to support the child to cope positively.

The Impact of Violence on Children  Children develop violent behavior on other children.  Impact on children’s educational performance and achievement.  violence at an early age can impair brain development.  Miscarriage, unwanted pregnancy, unsafe abortion, sexually transmitted infections including HIV, menstrual disorders e.tc

Community awareness and management of VAC Some civil society initiatives are doing tremendous jobs in fighting and rising awareness to the community about Violence Against Children.  The Kiota Women’s Health and Development Organization (KIWOHEDE)  The Tanzania Police Female Network (TPFNet)  Several groups use media—such as radio, video screenings, and TV programs—to raise awareness and advocate for attitude change.

The need for PSS With PSS, Children affected by violence can restore back  Their confidence, and Emotional wellbeing,  PSS help them to speak out whenever they are exposed to an abusive environment.  PSS brings a sense of self-acceptance.  PSS to family and community members helps to reduce the impact of stigma.

Recommendations  Educating families, caregivers and parents on their child’s early development.  Giving children and adolescents the skills to cope and manage risks and challenges without the use of violence.  Changing the attitudes and social norms that supports violence.  Encouraging children to seek support and report incidents of violence

Conclusion There is no cure for children affected by violence without PSS, and there are no responsible adults in future without PSS for children affected by violence.

THANK YOU