The Africa Civil Society Reference Group Inc. (ACSRG), a leading organisation advocating for women’s and children’s rights across the continent, has intensified its efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Africa.
Through a series of sub-regional consultations held between September and October 2024, ACSRG mobilised stakeholders from diverse sectors to strategise on addressing the alarming prevalence of gender-based violence.
These consultations coincided with International Human Rights Day and the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, highlighting the urgent need for collective action.
Africa faces a sobering reality regarding VAWG, with millions of women and girls at risk of harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage.
Reports indicate that over 115 million African women were married as children, while gender-based violence costs some African nations up to 3.7% of their GDP annually.
“These stark figures informed discussions among civil society organizations, policymakers, religious leaders, and the media, emphasizing the need for community engagement, health service expansion, policy reform, and the use of technology to tackle the crisis,” ACSRG stated.
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The group said the consultations yielded actionable recommendations, including amplifying grassroots initiatives to challenge harmful traditions, expanding access to survivor-friendly health services, and strengthening partnerships across sectors.
“Participants also stressed the importance of scaling evidence-based programs, supporting survivors through safe spaces and legal aid, and advocating for stricter enforcement of anti-violence laws,” it said.
Additionally, it noted that leveraging media and technology emerged as a key strategy to destigmatize reporting and promote awareness campaigns on violence prevention.
The convener of the consultations and ACSRG Board Member, John Ede, underscored the collective responsibility to combat violence against women and girls, stating, “Ending violence is not just a moral imperative; it’s essential for the well-being of our families, communities, and economies.”
Similarly, Chair of ACSRG Nneoma Albert-Benson called for unified action, urging governments, civil society, and international bodies to implement shared recommendations and ensure progress is sustainable.
ACSRG continues to invite stakeholders to join its movement against VAWG, emphasising the need for advocacy, collaboration, and grassroots engagement.
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