Zimbabwe men reporting gender-based violence

While gender-based violence (GBV) is often associated with women, growing evidence shows that men in Zimbabwe are also experiencing abuse in silence within their homes, with some now beginning to speak out despite stigma and cultural expectations.

Many men reportedly suffer physical, emotional, and financial abuse at the hands of spouses or partners but remain silent due to societal expectations that men must be strong and unemotional, often fearing ridicule or disbelief.

According to the Musasa Project, at least 241 male GBV survivors were assisted last year alone, highlighting a growing but often hidden dimension of domestic violence.

Men are increasingly turning to support structures such as Musasa Project, Padare/Enkundleni Men's Forum on Gender, churches, counsellors, and other organisations that provide psychosocial support and safe spaces to share experiences.

One survivor, Samuel Matambanadzo, said he endured repeated physical abuse from his wife, which affected his confidence at work and in the community.

Another survivor, Tonderai Ndlovu, described emotional strain caused by constant comparisons with neighbours, marital breakdown, and infidelity, saying the experience affected him mentally and physically.

Padare/Enkundleni programme officer Meseli Nyoni said cultural norms and traditional sayings that discourage men from showing vulnerability contribute to the silence around male GBV cases. He added that economic stress, substance abuse, weak enforcement of laws, and lack of awareness of reporting channels further worsen the problem.

"We have programmes that are assisting survivors of GBV, including psycho-social support through a toll-free line," Nyoni said, noting that funding constraints have limited the availability of male safe shelters previously operated by the organisation.

The organisation also works with perpetrators through counselling and rehabilitation programmes aimed at breaking cycles of violence and promoting healthier relationships.

Musasa Project director Vimbainashe Mutendereki said men commonly report verbal abuse, denial of conjugal rights, and disputes over property distribution, particularly after the death of a spouse.

She said the organisation has expanded its response mechanisms to include counselling, referrals, and dialogue sessions designed to encourage men to seek help and challenge harmful stereotypes.

Clinical family therapist Dr Clayton Choga said GBV against men is often rooted in societal expectations of masculinity, poor communication, substance abuse, and unresolved trauma from past exposure to violence.

He stressed that breakdowns in communication and failure to respect boundaries often escalate domestic conflict into abuse.

Religious leaders, including Bishop Ladwell Matanhike of the Apostolic Churches Council of Zimbabwe, said some men also face restrictions and abuse within marriages but fear reporting due to stigma and fear of being labelled perpetrators.

He called for counselling, prayer, and greater mutual respect within families.

The testimonies of survivors and insights from support organisations and experts point to a largely hidden but growing social issue, underscoring calls for broader recognition of male victims within GBV programming and stronger efforts to ensure all survivors, regardless of gender, receive support and protection.