Rape
is when someone forces you to have sex when you
do not want to. Both girls and boys can be raped.
There is never any excuse or acceptable
reason for rape, even when the person raping you
is a relative or family 'friend'. That person
has now lost his position of trust and he needs
to be stopped.
Whether
you know the person who is trying to rape you or not, remember
that many rapists enjoy frightening their victims - they
use rape to make themselves feel more powerful. So, one
way to protect yourself is to be confident and hold your
head up, even if you are feeling scared inside.
To
avoid getting raped, be careful what you do and where you
go when you are on your own. Don't accept lifts from strangers.
Don't drink alcohol or smoke mbanje in situations where
you don't know anyone you trust. If you are attacked, scream,
kick, bite or hit back quickly to hurt him - for example,
by kneeing him in the groin - and try to get away.
Although
these actions may help to avoid rape, they carry no guarantee.
If you do get raped, it is important that you see a doctor
and a police officer as soon as possible. Talk to friends
or family about it so they can help and support you. Zimbabwean
law says you can legally have an abortion if you have been
raped. This is why you should report the rape as soon as
possible, before you miss your period.
Auntie Stella
