By Patuma Salimu   In a bid to strengthen the response to Violence Against Women and Children, FAWEZI, in partnership with ActionAid Zimbabwe, Leonard Cheshire Disability, and Family AIDS Caring Trust, held an insightful dialogue with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Chitungwiza on December 4, 2024. The event, held in commemoration of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, aimed to enhance collaboration between law enforcement and other key stakeholders working to address the issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the community. The workshop set out with clear objectives: to improve the coordination between the ZRP and various organizations in the provision of services for victims of violence, to boost the police’s response system to cases involving violence against women and children, and to refresh the knowledge of police officers on the complexities of case documentation, scene attendance, and evidence gathering. During the event, police officers, community leaders, and various stakeholders came together to discuss the most effective ways to tackle violence and support survivors. One of the focal points was scene attendance, with participants emphasizing the importance of timely and professional action when attending crime scenes. “It is important to arrive at the scene of an incident early and not temper with evidence. That way we ensure that we get all the evidence we need to handle cases and put the perpetrator behind bars,” Assistant Inspector Chiza noted. Another significant discussion centred on interviewing children who are often victims or witnesses of violence. The dialogue provided valuable insights into the techniques and sensitivities required when engaging with children in such vulnerable circumstances, ensuring their voices are heard without causing further harm. In addition to this, the event addressed customer care and referral pathways, ensuring that survivors of violence receive compassionate treatment and are connected to appropriate support services. Assistant Inspector Chakanetsa emphasized the importance of customer care highlighting how important it is for police officers to be friendly and kind so that people would not be scared of them. “We deal with different kinds of people with different personalities but as an Officer of the law it is important to remain kind and friendly even to rude customers. That way members of the community would not be intimidated by us as the police.” Presentations from community champions highlighted the challenges faced by both the police and the community when handling sensitive cases, offering a unique perspective on the barriers that often hinder effective service delivery. Ephilda Magwaza, a Community Champion noted that as champions they need police officers especially those in the Victim Friendly Unit to respond promptly to cases and create a safe, comfortable, and private environment where people can feel free to report their cases. “Sometimes victims are scared to report their cases because of the lack of privacy. Some end up going back home and not coming back because their cases are being shouted in the corridor or take time before their being attended to.” Magwaza said. Participants were also educated on how to report and handle sensitive cases, with a focus on protecting the privacy and rights of the victims. Alongside this, the well-being of police officers was discussed, with an emphasis on self-care and the emotional toll that working on GBV cases can take on law enforcement professionals. Ensuring that officers remain healthy and supported is critical for their ongoing ability to serve the community effectively. Furthermore, the event focused on strengthening the relationship between the Victim Friendly Unit (VFU) and the Charge Office, ensuring a more cohesive and efficient approach to handling VAW and child abuse cases. The event was an eye-opener on how the VFU can collaborate with stakeholders to Foster healthy relations and assist members of the community.