Ayantu*,14, from Bule Hora City, West Guji Zone, experienced a life-altering event that shattered her innocence at a tender age.
It all began when she got into a heated argument with her family prompting her to leave home to seek refuge at a relative's house. She only knew the relative's workplace, which was the Kebele administration office, so she made her way there. Unfortunately, Ayantu was disheartened to discover that the person she sought was not present on that day.
As daylight faded into darkness, she found herself stranded and alone, desperately searching for a solution. Fortunately, the police officers stationed at the administration office noticed her distress and offered her a place to stay for the night within the compound.
With no other options available, Ayantu accepted their offer, grateful for their kindness. Little did she know that her vulnerability would be exploited most horrifyingly.
In the middle of the night, the police officer who was supposed to ensure her safety violated the trust. As soon as the commander retired for the night, he entered the room where Ayantu was sleeping and sexually assaulted her.
Ayantu was traumatized. She was in pain and unsure of what to do and where to go. Overwhelmed by fear and shame, she returned to her family and lied about where she spent the night claiming that she slept in the woods. Her physical appearance, however, told a different story. Bruised, with torn and blood-stained clothes, it was evident that something terrible had happened to her.
Concerned about her well-being, the women in the household approached Ayantu, urging her to share the truth. Overwhelmed by their support and trust, she mustered the courage to confide in them, revealing the horrifying details of the assault she had endured. Her family took immediate action accompanying her to the Kebele administration office to report the crime.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the police wasted no time arresting the accused police officer and bringing him to the station for questioning. Shockingly, he admitted to committing the crime, confirming Ayantu's harrowing experience.
Meanwhile, the police sent Ayantu to Bule Hora Teaching Hospital's One-Stop Center (OSC), a facility established to provide comprehensive services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs. The OSC, supported by UNFPA, with funds from KOICA, offered Ayantu a safe space to receive medical attention, psychological support, and necessary medications.
The Center is well-equipped with medical kits, medication, and furniture to provide comprehensive support for survivors. The staff are trained in GBV case management, ensuring that survivors like Ayantu receive the highest quality of care and support.
In addition to the care provided, the center brought all stakeholders to collaborate and work together. Police, women and social affairs, public prosecutors, and the hospital work together in every case so that survivors get all the support and services they need in one place.
The establishment of this OSC is a vital component of the UNFPA project to provide comprehensive and quality GBV and SRH services to women and girls. It serves as a beacon of hope, offering a haven for survivors and a platform for healing, justice, and empowerment.
Ayantu's journey towards recovery has just begun. With the support of her family and the dedicated professionals at the OSC, she is rebuilding her life.
Her story underscores the importance of accessible and comprehensive services for survivors, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat GBV and ensure the well-being and safety of women and girls in our society.
The offender is still in police custody awaiting trial.
