Shocking Revelations of Rape and Sexual Assault Across Sub-Saharan Africa
New data released by UNICEF reveals staggering numbers of women and girls across sub-Saharan Africa have experienced rape and sexual assault as children, with the region considered one of the worst places in the world to be a girl. A staggering 79 million women and girls have suffered this trauma, with African kids being among the most vulnerable, with 1 in 5 experiencing sexual assault or rape before the age of 18.
This dire reality has been revealed through a first-ever analysis of national data and international survey programs from 2010 to 2022, according to UNICEF’s chief statistician, Claudia Cappa. The data, though not without its limitations, aims to shed light on the alarming issue of sexual violence against children.
“This is a stain on our moral conscience,” emphasizes UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. The trauma caused by these acts has far-reaching consequences, stunting development and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those affected.
Regional child violence specialist Nankali Maksud echoes this sentiment, stating, “It’s terrifying. It is generations of trauma.” The numbers are particularly high in regions plagued by conflict and insecurity, where sexual violence is often used as a weapon of war.
Aid agencies in Sudan have issued warnings about the dangers faced by girls and women in the ongoing conflict. Russell highlights, “Children in fragile settings are especially vulnerable to sexual violence. We are witnessing horrific sexual violence in conflict zones, where rape and gender-based violence are often used as weapons of war.”
The urgent need for support and resources to address this crisis cannot be overstated. It is crucial that we work together to create a world where children are protected from this form of violence and supported in their recovery, for their own benefit and the benefit of society as a whole.
