Gender-based violence (GBV) in Zambia has been recognized as a critical gender and human rights issue, with 4 in 10 women (36%) having experienced physical violence at least once since age 15. Data further shows that 52% of women who experienced physical or sexual violence never sought help and never told anyone.
As part of the Government of Zambia-United Nations (GRZ-UN) Joint Programme on Gender-Based Violence supported by Governments of Sweden and Ireland, the Zambia Police Service has launched a revised medical report form (ZP form 32) which will improve the quality of evidence collected in cases of sexual and gender based violence in Zambia.
Inspector General of Police Mr. Graphel Musamba said the form has been enhanced to enable health practitioners conduct comprehensive medical examinations and capture forensic medical evidence for potential use during investigations and prosecution of GBV cases.
“The form provides a comprehensive framework for medical examinations, it encourages the inclusion of additional tests such as HIV and STI screenings, and offers pictogram illustrations to enhance understanding” - he said in a statement delivered on his behalf by Deputy Police Inspector General – Administration Ms. Alita Mbahwe during the launch.
Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Jack Mwiimbu said the new police medical report form will help to address the inadequacies that made it difficult to investigate and corroborate evidence in crimes associated with GBV and other crimes. Hon. Mwiimbu said the revised medical form will provide proper documentation of medical evidence.
“I wish to express appreciation for the collaborative efforts and financial support from the UN Joint Programme on GBV through UNFPA, with funding from Government of Sweden. I also wish to acknowledge the Judiciary, Ministry of Health, and the National Prosecutors Authority for their contributions to creating a more comprehensive version of the form” - he said in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary, Mr. Dickson Matembo
Also speaking at the launch, UNFPA Representative Mr. Seth Broekman highlighted that a coordinated multi-institutional response is essential to win the fight against GBV.
“The launch of the revised police medical report form represents progress achieved through collaboration and shared purpose, offering hope for a future where GBV and harmful practices are entirely eradicated” - he said.
