TCDI Leads GBV Awareness Campaign in Bade, Yobe

By, Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu

In it’s effort to raise awareness and initiate an action to combat gender based violence (GBV) in the community, the Taimako Community Development Initiative (Taimako-CDI)in collaboration with Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP)has organized a one day awareness campaign on gender based violence (GBV) at Azbak,Usur Dawayo ward of Bade local government area of Yobe State.

The campaign with its theme,”adjusting perception and awareness on gender based violence, prevention and response, aims to establish adequate community response by giving the community ownership and empowering them to discuss issues concerning their communities and share social perspectives about the causes and the nature of GBV.

In his opening remarks, a community gatekeeper emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in preventing GBV. He urged parents to provide for their children’s basic needs and quality education, particularly for the girl child, who he described as the “foundation of a brighter community.”

Religious leaders also played a significant role in the dialogue, with the Imam calling upon youths and keke Napep riders to respect the rights and dignity of women and girls. He emphasized that religion encourages marriage, but only through the right channels, and that exploiting vulnerable individuals is unacceptable.

The vigilante group representatives stressed the need for collective action in protecting the community from GBV perpetrators. They noted that some parents often prove difficult when their children are involved in crimes, and emphasized the importance of standing together to address these challenges.

The dialogue resulted in several key outcomes, including a change in practices, knowledge, attitude, and beliefs towards GBV response services. The community also established a safeguarding committee to provide quality GBV response services.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Zara Yusuf who provided an overview of the session, commended the community for their participation and commitment to addressing GBV respectively.

She emphasized the importance of sustained efforts and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the protection and empowerment of women and girls in the community at large.

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