The Prevalence and Factors Associated with Gender Based Violence among Zimbabweans Deported through Beitbridge District, Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe, 2013.

Abstract

Background: Gender Based Violence (GBV) is gaining recognition in Zimbabwe due to rising prevalence and long term health consequences of the survivors. Beitbridge district handles an influx of deported migrants over any given period. Preliminary information obtained from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) suggested a high burden of GBV amongst deported migrants. We investigated the prevalence and factors associated with GBV amongst Zimbabwean women deported through Beitbridge District. Methods: An analytical cross sectional study was conducted among Zimbabwean women aged 18 years and above deported from South Africa through IOM Centre in Beitbridge District in 2013.Data was summarized using proportions and means.Bivariate and Step wise logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with GBV. Results: Results from 291 participants were analysed. The prevalence of ever experiencing GBV was 44.7% (CI:38.9; 50.6).The distribution of GBV by typology was emotional/psychological 38.8(CI:32.7;45.4), Physical 36.4%(CI:30.6;42.9),Sexual abuse 34%(CI:28.5;40.2) and economic abuse 14%(CI:10.1;19.6). Independent risk factors were Age<18yrs at marriage or when started living with partner POR 3.8(CI: 1.12; 11.78), Using private transport while migrating POR 4.1(CI: 2.07; 8.26),having a partner/husband with other sexual partners POR 5.9(CI: 2.35; 14.85) and partner/husband alcohol consumption POR 3.0(CI: 1.58; 5.99) Conclusion: The crude prevalence of GBV of was 44.7%. Risk factors identified in this study were, age<18yrs at marriage, use of private transport, partner/husband with other sexual partners and husband/partner alcohol consumption. Majority of GBV survivors did not report or seek help because they feared arrest and deportation. Recommendations:There is need to put in place a program and resources to screen all female deportees for GBV and give them appropriate treatment as they pass through the IOM support centre.Humanitarian space should also be opened up to partners working in health services provision for treatment and management of GBV survivors.