Stakeholders demand greater collaboration to end sexual and gender-based violence

By Adeleye Kunle

Stakeholders have called for increased collaboration to end cases of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, claiming that with increased and appropriate collaboration, rape and abuse would become a thing of the past in the country.

This was the submission at the book launch for ‘Emerge.’ Titilayo Ogunbambi, the founder of Boundless Hands Africa, wrote it.

Mrs. Abigal Tyoden, wife of Plateau State’s Deputy Governor, who led the discussion, advised all victims of sexual and gender-based violence to always report assault to the appropriate authorities and law enforcement agents.

“Practically all of the federation’s states are providing free medical and psychological assistance to all victims of these crimes in our society.” When you are abused, all you need to do is report it. Don’t perish in silence; speak up and demand justice.”

Speaking about the motivation behind the book, Titilayo Ogunbambi, Founder of Boundless Hands Africa Initiative, stated that the greatest fear any human can have in their heart is the guilt of someone else’s actions, which happens to be the reality for one out of every three girls/women in our society.

“Creating a society where everyone is free to live a happy, safe, and violence-free life has been my driving force for the last ten years!” This is about our children and the decisions we make today to address societal norms and beliefs that continue to endanger their lives, not just about you or me.

“With each encounter described in this book Emerge, my resolve strengthened, and my focus remained on freeing the girl child from predestined shackles.” A choice I must make every time I come into contact with a survivor of violence or abuse.

“Over time, societal judgment has encouraged a culture of silence that silences survivors’ voices.” My question today is whether we will ever be free of the shadows of abuse and violence. It’s a question that lingers in my mind, and it should in yours as well.

She hinted that her Foundation was founded in 2016 to advocate for policies that protect people from injustices and to champion the prevention of gender-based violence in communities.

“Since 2016, Boundless Hands Africa has improved the health and well-being of survivors of gender-based violence by providing access to sexual reproductive health information and services.” Providing survivors of sexual abuse with psychosocial support, as well as sensitizing and empowering women and girls living in underserved communities with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

“My team and I have successfully implemented over 38 interventions, reaching over 25,000 people in-person and online.”

Zainab Olisamah, the event’s Guest Speaker and Director of Financial Planning & Analysis at HIS Towers Nigeria, stated that both public and private organizations must raise awareness about gender-based violence, and she asked for men’s help in combating the problem.

“Organizations must abandon self-interest when women show up for interviews because I have seen cases where organizations refused to hire a woman because she would be on maternity leave.”

“Also, when a woman starts a business, it is expected that it will be a support business for the man.” So, as women, we must encourage economically active women to actively contribute to the development of this country and the advancement of equality.”

The post Stakeholders call for more collaboration to end sexual, gender-based violence appeared first on Track News.