PRESIDENT Ali Mohamed Shein joined lawyers in Zanzibar to mark the Law Day with a public appeal for concerted efforts in fighting Gender violence tarnishing the image of the islands.

The 'Law Day' event held at the Victoria Gardens, close to Zanzibar State House in the Stone Town was an opportunity for Shein, Chief Justice (CJ) Mr Omar Othman Makungu, and the Zanzibar Lawyers Association (ZLS) to recall for end of Gender Based Violence (GBV).

"Violence against children and women is now considered as part of life and normal thing in the society. We need to work together to address this menace," said the CJ at the colourful function also attended by activists and Speaker of Zanzibar House Mr Pandu Ameir Kificho.

Mr Awadhi Ali Said, ZLS chairperson informed the gathering that many cases of GBV go unreported, and 'it seems the community has allowed the violence to take place. There are weaknesses in handling GBV cases, we need to change."

Awadhi adds that lack of facilities like DNA machines to help in investigations, and laxity mood by law enforcers and some judiciary staff hampers addressing GBV in the islands. In his speech at the Law Day, Shein said that it was possible to end violence against children and women members of the community should be committed including working with law enforcers.

"Let us show sympathy, love, and care to victims of GBV. Our joint efforts in protecting the rights of women and children should include exposing dishonest police, magistrates, Judges, and parents," Shein emphasized.