UPR Sexual Rights Database

National Report:
Para 39) The State continued to implement its National Action Plan for Prevention and Eradication of Violence against Women and Children (2001-2015) as follows: A National Multi-Sectoral Committee to Prevent and Respond to Violence against Women and Children and Child protection teams established and the Tanzania Teachers' Code of Conduct and Professional Ethics of 1963 is under review to include specific measures on promotion of child rights and zero-tolerance for violence against children in schools. A child free help line was launched on 14th June, 2013 and one Stop Centers for child abuse victims were established. The State has also developed a roadmap for raising awareness on Violence against Children and Gender Based Violence (2014-2016). The State continues to be part of a Great Lakes Region campaign on Sex and Gender Based Violence "DECLARE ZERO TOLERANCE NOW" (SGBV) launched in 2012.

Para 40) In Tanzania Zanzibar, Gender based violence (GBV) committees have been established at Village, Ward, District and National level with guidelines for prevention of GBV and there is a National GBV Register Board that records cases of violence against women and children. A call help line was established in 2015 with number 116 to report and receive assistance from incidences of violence and One Stop Centers have been established. Currently, VAC cases are highly reported due to availability of such services and a shelter house has been designated to accommodate survivors of GBV. Also, 417 Gender and Children Desks are in place in major Police Stations around the country which have developed and harmonized Standard Operating procedures(SOP). To that effect, 1,196 Police Officers have been trained on the SOP and their guidelines.

Para 42) Elements of domestic violence are criminalized under the Penal Code [Cap 16 R.E 2002] and the Zanzibar Penal Act No. 6 of 2004 which criminalize grievous bodily harm and assault being key elements of domestic violence. Further, obstacles to attaining a police report prior to obtaining medical attention have been removed. In Tanzania Zanzibar parenting groups have been established at the grassroots level (Shehia) and are being strengthened to provide care to parents and children. In Tanzania Mainland Section 130 of The Penal Code [Cap 16 RE 2002] criminalizes rape and in Tanzania Zanzibar Section 125(1) of the Penal Act No. 6 of 2004 criminalizes rape.

Stakeholder Summary:
Para 40) CRR stated that at the 2011 review, Tanzania accepted recommendations to address the high level of violence against and girls. However, Tanzania was still failing to effectively implement child protection laws, policies, and action plans throughout the country.

National Report:
Para 43) Section 169A of The Penal Code [Cap 16 RE 2002] criminalizes Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) of girls under the age of 18 years in Tanzania Mainland. Also, the National Plan of Action for Prevention and Eradication of FGM 2001-2015 is designated for review in 2016 while the National Plan of Action to Accelerate the Eradication of FGM and Other Harmful Traditional Practices and the National Human Rights Action Plan 2013-2017 are operational. Further, the National Policy on Childhood Care and Development which addressed FGM is at the validation and approval stages.

Para 44) FGM cases are being successfully prosecuted in the criminal justice system as a result of awareness raising and capacity building. Programmes for alternative sources of income for those who perform FGM as means of livelihood have been devised and the State in collaboration with CSO's continues the implementation of the 'Stop Female Genital Mutilation' campaign which is changing people's attitudes towards FGM

Para 45) All killings are criminalized under Section 196 of the Penal Code [Cap 16 Re 2002] as murder. The State is in the process of reviewing the Witchcraft Act Cap, 18 and the Traditional and Alternative Medicines Act, No. 23 of 2012 with a view of using the legislation to combat witchcraft and witchcraft killings. The State also continues to register traditional healers and places parameters to their activities. Further, the NHRAP promotes rights of the elderly by addressing issues of witchcraft associated killings. The National Aging policy of 2003 is being reviewed and a Bill is being prepared to protect the elderly. Further, 17 safe homes for elderly persons have been established to support survivors of witchcraft killings

UN Compilation:
Para 22) UNCT stated that, in its efforts to address harmful cultural and traditional customs and practices, such as female genital mutilation, polygamy and the bride price, the United Republic of Tanzania had continued to strengthen the implementation of the Zanzibar Penal Act (2004) and the Penal Code (applicable on the mainland), both of which criminalized female genital mutilation. The State had also carried out public awareness-raising campaigns and media programmes in an effort to eliminate female genital mutilation.