We need Justice to GBV Victims in Tanzania

Lindi Women Paralegal Aid Center provides free, professional legal services and psycho-social support to victims of gender-based violence (GBV) in one of Tanzania's most disadvantaged communities. Lindi, an informal settlement south of Tanzania, is home to over 1,200,000 people, yet LIWOPAC is the only organization of its kind working in the community. Also works closely with local police and courts to ensure GBV victims are treated with dignity and respect when seeking justice

Challenge

Violence against women is an epidemic in Tanzania. It is estimated that one woman is raped every 1 minute nationwide, and rates of gender-based violence (GBV) are particularly high in the community of Lindi, where LIWOPAC works. In a recent survey, 84.9% of community members identified domestic violence as the most common form of violence they experience. Many women lack meaningful access to legal relief, and even suffer secondary trauma when seeking justice through the police and court.

Solution

LIWOPAC provides free legal services and psycho-social support to victims of GBV in Lindi region, an informal settlement south of Tanzania, where rates of GBV are staggeringly high. LIWOPAC assists with protection orders, provides support in criminal cases of rape and assault, and ensures the police and courts are responsive to victims' needs. LIWOPAC also provides individual and group counseling, and facilitates community workshops to raise awareness of GBV and empower women and girls.

Long-Term Impact

This project will bring justice to thousands of GBV victims, breaking the cycle of abuse and freeing survivors to move on with their lives. LIWOPAC's innovative model involves direct client support, community education and awareness-raising, as well as ongoing engagement with state actors. LIWOPAC believes that by changing attitudes we can also change behavior, and ultimately transform the lives of individuals, families, and communities