New York (TDI): In a shocking revelation, UNICEF has reported that over 79 million women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa have experienced rape and sexual assault during their childhood.
This alarming statistic underscores the region’s dire position as one of the most dangerous places in the world for young girls.
Globally, UNICEF estimates that sexual violence has impacted approximately 370 million girls and women, with around one in five in sub-Saharan Africa suffering sexual assault or rape before reaching the age of 18.
“Sexual violence against children is a stain on our moral conscience,” declared UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
This data release marks the first time such figures have been compiled, using national data and international survey programs from 2010 to 2022. According to media reports.
Claudia Cappa, UNICEF’s chief statistician, acknowledged the limitations of the data, including underreporting in some regions.
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“We know the limitations, but we also wanted to finally give visibility to the issue through numbers,” she stated.
Nankali Maksud, a regional child violence specialist based in Nairobi, expressed her distress, stating, “It’s terrifying. It represents generations of trauma.”
The implications of this trauma are profound, affecting educational opportunities for survivors. “We are putting significant effort into encouraging girls to attend school, but a girl who has been raped or experienced sexual assault cannot learn,” Maksud added.
The statistics are particularly concerning in areas plagued by conflict and insecurity.
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Russell highlighted the vulnerability of children in fragile settings, noting, “We are witnessing horrific sexual violence in conflict zones, where rape and gender-based violence are often used as weapons of war.”
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Human Rights Watch reported earlier this year that the actual number of sexual violence cases is likely far greater than the reported figures, as many survivors are either unable or unwilling to seek emergency care.
