NGO sensitizes Zamfara communities on GBV/PSEA prevention

From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau

The Focal Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) for Zamfara State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape Project (ACReSAL), HESCO, has successfully organized a comprehensive community sensitization workshop, as part of its implementation plan.

The workshop focused on gender awareness, gender-based violence (GBV), and prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) organized for members of Local Government Project Implementation Committees (LGPICs), Community Interest Groups (CIGs), farmers, religious leaders, traditional leaders, youths, and community associations from the two catchments of three Local Government Areas under the ACReSAL project, comprising Bungudu, Kaura Namoda, and Gusau.

According to the State Executive Director of HESCO, Abdullahi Lawali Bungudu, the primary objective of the sensitization workshop was to educate and sensitize community members on the importance of gender awareness, prevention of GBV, and promotion of PSEA.

He reiterated that, GBV is a pervasive problem that impacts individuals, families, and communities worldwide therefore, need to collectively gear up to create a society that values respect all regardless of gender.

“Let’s challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Together, we can build a culture that promotes healthy relationships, empowers women and girls, and protects human rights, let’s take action, raise awareness, and create a safer, more just society for all.

Let’s work together to end GBV and build a brighter future”, Bungudu stressed

Representatives from the ACReSAL team led by the Gender Officer ACReSAL Project in Zamfara State, Hajiya Rabi Abdullahi Nahuche, weee encouraged participants to actively engage and share the knowledge gained with other community members.

She also emphasized the importance of following the reporting mechanism for GBV and PSEA cases to the appropriate authorities.

Presenting a paper, a HESCO Project Consultant, Dr. Ahmed Hashim, explained the various forms of GBV, effective ways to prevent PSEA, and the crucial roles community members can play in promoting a safe and respectful environment.

He said: “By doing so, the workshop aimed to empower participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to creating a protective and supportive community.”