The shortage of potable water in the dormitory town of Epworth has seen a growth in the sexual abuse of young girls and women by self-appointed guardians of the few water sources in the area.
Epworth is struggling to provide water in the homes of its residents who are now relying on a sources of clean water which including community boreholes.
However some rowdy men have become water mafia’s who now control how the community water sources can be accessed because of the demand.
Many young ladies spend long hours in queues trying to get water at the few water points, and end up being lured into engaging in sexual relationships with the men manning the water points so that they can easily access water.
Anti-Corruption watchdog Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) released a report on the abuse of women over access to water, terming it Sextotion.
In Epworth many young girls desperate to get water before nightfall have been exposed to abuse from the men who assist them to access the water.
The COVID 19 induced lockdown and curfews have made it even worse and difficult for young girls who fear law enforcement agents could pounce on them if they wake up early or stay late to get water.
A high prevalence of sexual and physical abuse cases due to the frustrations and an increase in unwanted pregnancies and the spread of STIs as well as sexual exploitation of school girls, is a big story in Epworth that remains unreported.
Young women and girls are at high risk in the community as they are harassed regularly taking advantage of the covid -19 crisis regulations.
Therefore young women are pleading for community leaders to put measures in place to ensure that they have access to water without falling victim to GBV.
Story By Lettia Makayise