Throughout history, the Great Lakes region in central Africa has been recognized as a great provider of protein for millions of people through its many fishing communities. These days, it’s better known for the years of recent conflict that’s involved multi-layered civil wars, genocide and millions of refugees.
High vulnerability of girls to sexual abuse and exploitation has roots in the social-cultural relations between males and females. Traditional practices such as early marriage were common as parents encouraged their children to get married in exchange for bride price.
Now, a new report by World Vision has found that 1.4 million children, in refugee camps dotted across the region have been sexually abused and most often by adults, they know and trust, which encompasses other refugees, security forces, teachers, medical and aid workers.
World Vision Regional Coordinator Valarie Kamatsiko said the situation would worsen if the authorities did not step in.
Life for children, especially girls and women is really very gloomy. They have no place to go particularly when they are being preyed upon by their own acquaintances.
