Citation

Njovana E, Watts CH. Reprod. Health Matters 1996; 4(7): 46-55.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/S0968-8080(96)90005-1

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In sub-Saharan Africa, physical, psychological, sexual and economic forms of violence against women are widespread, but for many years received little or no attention and are still often seen as peripheral to reproductive health. This paper discusses how violence impacts on a woman's reproductive health and illustrates some of the ways in which woman are vulnerable to violence if they are perceived to challenge gender subordination, assert their own sexuality, or fail to fulfill their assigned reproductive role adequately. It is based on our experience at the Musasa Project, a women's NGO working to address gender violence in Zimbabwe. Strategies for stronger collaboration between government and women's NGOs are recommended. Reproductive health services are likely to have earlier contact with survivors of violence than projects like Musasa or the police would, which could provide important opportunities for early intervention. Joint action could include research, advocacy and service delivery.