As the world marked 16 days of special focus on ays to end gender-based violence November 17-December 10;, a non-governmental organization, Healthy Life Development Initiative, HELDI organized an awareness campaign in Eleme Local Government Area of River State in solidarity with the global movement for respect for the rights of women and women and girls.
. The event, titled “Raising Awareness on SGBV and the Importance of Response Teams,” which held on November 27, hosted about 100 participants, including representatives from all clans and communities in Eleme and cut across aolescents, youths, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to faith-based organizations, traditional leaders, and community chiefs.
On focus was the alarming prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) with discussions on strategies for prevention and response. Participants deliberated on harmful traditional practices including forced marriages, widowhood rites, and gender-based inequalities, which perpetuate violence. Concerns were raised over the culture of silence over SGBV within families, stigmatization of survivors, and sexual abuse targeting minors, stepchildren, and house helps.
Chief Israel, a respected community leader, emphasized the transformative power of education, particularly for girls, in challenging harmful traditions and fostering societal change. Dr. Patience and other participants called for abolishing dehumanizing cultural practices and fostering collaboration to create a culture of equality, respect, and safety.
Dr. Mfon Utin, HELDi’s Coordinator, introduced the globally recognized “I Need Help” hand signal, a discreet tool for seeking assistance in dangerous situations. Participants practiced the signal and pledged to promote its use as she highlighted the critical need for SGBV response teams in Eleme LGA, educating participants on their role in supporting survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and creating safer communities.
She encouraged participants to spread the gained awareness by organize smaller group discussions to “step down” the knowledge as they go back and reaffirmed HELDi’s commitment to advocating for safe environments and systemic changes to eliminate SGBV.
The resource persons, Mrs Loretta Ahuokpeme and Dr. Amaka Elem employed interactive methods, including group activities and practical referral strategies, to equip participants with tools to support survivors effectively. They underscored the importance of timely medical interventions and the use of referral systems to link survivors to appropriate services.
The session provided room for participants to share personal experiences of SGBV, seeking advice on handling issues such as sexual abuse, stigmatization, and inadequate support systems. Facilitators underscored the importance of reporting cases, protecting survivors’ confidentiality, and challenging societal stigmas.
The local languages was also used in delivering the messages to ensure all understood what was being passed down. the to
The session was supported in local languages to ensure inclusivity, particularly for elderly participants. Attendees expressed gratitude for the impactful discussions and committed to driving change by disseminating knowledge within their communities.
