A low cost parenting intervention has more than halved rates of sexual violence among teenage girls in Tanzania, a study has shown.

The ParentApp digital parenting programme for families is aimed at reducing rates of violence experienced by teenagers of both sexes.

Researchers found the programme helped bolster family relationships and enabled mothers and fathers to better communicate with their children at what is often a tricky stage of their development.

The programme, led by Oxford University and the University of Cape Town in partnership with the Tanzanian government, the World Health Organization and Unicef, combines in-person and mobile parenting support.

Parents have an introductory session with a facilitator and then undertake 12 weekly sessions online.…