Women athletes across three East African countries face rising levels of sexual and gender-based violence. A new study from Aga Khan University examined the problem through surveys and interviews with sports participants. Researchers gathered data from 748 people and spoke with 18 athletes across 32 national sports groups. The findings reveal troubling patterns of abuse that harm female competitors.
Tanzania reported that 62 percent of respondents had experienced violence or knew someone who had. Kenya showed higher rates at 69 percent, which represents a sharp increase from 43 percent recorded just three years earlier. Uganda had 48 percent of women between ages 18 and 44 report similar experiences. Spectators caused many problems for Ugandan athletes.
Female athletes face much higher risks than male competitors. The study found that 82 percent of women were more vulnerable to various forms of abuse. Verbal attacks happened most often, followed by emotional harm, physical violence and sexual assault. Coaches, team officials and fans committed these acts against athletes.
Many victims stay silent about their experiences. Only 17 percent of survey participants admitted to personal encounters with violence. Another 25 percent refused to answer questions about abuse. Athletes fear losing their careers if they speak up about problems.
The violence drives many women away from sports permanently. Experienced female leaders leave the system, which allows male dominance to continue. Researchers recommend better education programs, stronger punishments and required training for coaches. Recent murders of female runners have brought more attention to these safety concerns.
Tanzania reported that 62 percent of respondents had experienced violence or knew someone who had. Kenya showed higher rates at 69 percent, which represents a sharp increase from 43 percent recorded just three years earlier. Uganda had 48 percent of women between ages 18 and 44 report similar experiences. Spectators caused many problems for Ugandan athletes.
Female athletes face much higher risks than male competitors. The study found that 82 percent of women were more vulnerable to various forms of abuse. Verbal attacks happened most often, followed by emotional harm, physical violence and sexual assault. Coaches, team officials and fans committed these acts against athletes.
Many victims stay silent about their experiences. Only 17 percent of survey participants admitted to personal encounters with violence. Another 25 percent refused to answer questions about abuse. Athletes fear losing their careers if they speak up about problems.
The violence drives many women away from sports permanently. Experienced female leaders leave the system, which allows male dominance to continue. Researchers recommend better education programs, stronger punishments and required training for coaches. Recent murders of female runners have brought more attention to these safety concerns.
