Hassan Magulumali
Tanzania recorded 7,219 rape cases in 2025, prompting the government to intensify calls for the public to report sexual violence and reject private settlements that prevent survivors from accessing justice.
Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups Maryprisca Mahundi disclosed the figures in Parliament while responding to questions from Special Seats Member of Parliament Hawa Mchafu, who raised concerns about persistent rape incidents, including cases resulting in pregnancy.
Mahundi also responded to Temeke MP Mariam Kisangi of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), who sought clarification on government measures to prevent rape cases from being settled privately outside the formal justice system.
The deputy minister warned that concealing sexual violence or negotiating private arrangements with alleged perpetrators undermines accountability and denies survivors the opportunity to pursue justice through established legal procedures.
She stressed that rape and other forms of gender-based violence constitute serious violations of human rights, dignity and personal safety, requiring coordinated action from government institutions, communities and families.
Mahundi said the government was strengthening law enforcement, public awareness campaigns and support services for survivors through social welfare offices, police Gender and Children’s Desks and local government authorities.
She urged citizens to report sexual abuse rather than conceal incidents because of stigma, family pressure, financial considerations or fear of damaging relationships within their communities.
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The government has also encouraged the public to use established reporting channels, including police Gender and Children’s Desks and the national child helpline, 116, to seek assistance in cases involving children.
The reported number of cases highlights the continuing challenge of sexual violence in Tanzania. However, reported cases represent incidents brought to the attention of authorities and should not automatically be interpreted as the total number of rapes committed, since some survivors may not report abuse.
Fear of retaliation, social stigma, economic dependence and pressure from relatives can discourage survivors from seeking help. In some communities, informal settlements may also be pursued in an attempt to protect family reputations or avoid legal consequences.
Such practices can leave survivors without adequate protection, medical care, psychosocial support or access to formal justice. Where sexual violence results in pregnancy, survivors may face additional health, educational and financial challenges.
Effective responses require timely investigations, survivor-centred medical and counselling services, protection from intimidation and appropriate legal action. Public education is equally important in helping communities understand that sexual violence is a serious offence rather than a private dispute to be resolved through informal negotiations.
Schools, families, community leaders and local authorities also have a role in promoting safe environments, educating children about personal safety and ensuring that allegations of abuse are referred to the appropriate authorities.
Tanzania’s response will depend not only on reporting mechanisms but also on the ability of law enforcement agencies and support institutions to handle cases professionally, protect survivors’ privacy and pursue investigations without unnecessary delays.
The government has reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in combating gender-based violence, urging citizens to speak out against abuse and support survivors in seeking assistance.
The figures presented in Parliament underline the need for sustained prevention efforts, stronger accountability and accessible support services to ensure that survivors of sexual violence are protected and perpetrators are held accountable through the law.
