Burundi rights group records 961 rape cases in 2003

Bujumbura, Burundi (PANA) - A Burundi human rights group Wednesday said 961 cases of rape involving adult women and young girls were reported to it in 2003.
The victims were mainly internally displaced persons residing at encampment sites, according to a recent survey conducted by the Burundian human rights league, 'Iteka', which means dignity in a local language.

Most perpetrators of the rapes were combatants in the civil war representing government forces and rebel groups as well as militiamen from both sides, 'Iteka' explained.

It said the number of cases reported might not correspond to the gravity of the phenomenon since the survey covered only five of the country's 17 provinces, and about 50 percent of the population living in displaced camps.

'Iteka' pointed out that the figures were also far from the reality because some victims prefer to keep silent to protect their privacy.

"Since issues relative to sex are taboo in Burundian society, the majority of rape cases are concealed and victims rarely dare to speak up or take the matter to court," said Joseph Mujiji, secretary-general of 'Iteka'.

He said 'Iteka' had taken the lead in efforts to tackle sexual violence against women and young girls by organising awareness seminars involving the police and legal profession.

Currently a seminar was underway in Bujumbura for criminal investigation officers, state prosecutors and judges working in regions most affected by the rape phenomenon.

Mujiji said 'Iteka' intends to encourage the appropriate state agencies "to mercilessly crack down on rapists, in accordance with the law".