Roles of Community Members in the Prevention and Control of Domestic Violence Affecting Married Women in the Tourism Industry in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The research sought to examine the roles of community members in the prevention and control of domestic violence affecting married women aged 19 to 49 in the Tourism industry in Zimbabwe. The study rose out of concern that domestic violence in Zimbabwe continues to be a problem affecting married women due to lack of law and machinery to tackle the problem. The study collected data from a purposive sampling of one hundred and fifteen participants, consisting of married women aged between 19 to 49, church leaders and traditional leaders. The qualitative descriptive survey collected data through key informant face to face interviews, semi – structured questionnaires and audio tapes. Thematic data analysis using Nvivo software package revealed that domestic violence requires the effort of everyone to be eradicated. It was concluded that spiritual leaders play a uniquely vital role in response to and elimination of domestic violence, as they carry the responsibility to protect and nurture the spiritual wellbeing of the community as a whole and its individual members. Domestic violence can negatively affect women’s physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health. The research recommended that there is need for community members to honour the rights of every woman who experience domestic violence so as to lead a life full of happiness and freedom irrespective of colour, age, class, abilities and religion. Community members to engage key stakeholders and positively influence them to become part of the solution.