By Nasratu Kargbo
Kono District has recorded the highest physical assault cases for the second year running, according to a report by the Rainbo Initiative covering the six districts in which the institution operates.
Based on the Gender Based Violence (GBV) Survivor Incident Report 2023, which was launched on the 20 March 2024, the institution received ninety-four (94) reports from the district, a figure that represents 47.5% of total physical assault cases reported across the six districts.
The district was followed by Kambia where fifty-five (55) cases were recorded, representing 27% of total physical assault cases reported in the year 2023.
Thirty (30) persons from Bombali District made complaints, a figure representing 15.2% of total reported cases.
Kenema recorded fifteen (15) cases, whilst Bo recorded the lowest with a single digit of seven cases (7), representing seven and three percent respectively.
Eventhough Kono recorded the highest reported cases, the numbers in 2023 dropped by fifty-nine (59). In 2022 the district recorded 153 cases represenging 65% of total physical assault cases then.
All other districts also maintained their positions. However there are changes in the number of cases reported. In 2022, Kambia recorded the second highest with twenty-five people representing 10.7%. Compared to the 2023 report, there was an increase of 28 cases in the district.
Kambia was followed by Bombali with 24 reported cases in 2022 represenging 10.3%. That number increased by six.
Centres in Kenema and Bo had 17 and 15 reported cases, representing 7.3% and 6.4% respectively.
Comparing the two years, it is clear that Kenema and Bo recorded a reduction of casess, with Kenema making a slight decrease of two cases and Bo eight cases.
In the area of gang rape, the numbers have reduced, making 2023 the year with the least number of gang rapes for the past three years. According to the 2023 report, the institution recorded 101 cases, down from 144 cases recorded in 2022. In 2021 there were 124 reports of gang rape.
Rainbo Initiative is a national Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) that seeks to end Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). It provides free medical treatment, psychosocial services and age appropriate treatment for survivors of SGBV in its operational districts.
The institution has centres in six districts across the country: Kenema, Bo, Kono, Kambia, Western Area Rural and Weestern Area Urban.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (25/03/24)
