The Anambra State Government has stepped up efforts to curb Gender-based Violence (GBV), describing it as a serious social and public health issue with far-reaching effects on victims, especially women, children and other vulnerable groups.
The renewed campaign was championed by the Anambra State Multi-Stakeholders Action Committee on the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence (MAP GBV) through a sensitisation programme conducted in Nnewi North and Nnewi South Local Government Areas.
Held under the theme, “Uniting Community Stakeholders for Grassroots Action Against Gender-Based Violence in Nnewi North and South,” the initiative was organised in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria.
The programme brought together traditional rulers, women and youth groups, persons with disabilities and other community stakeholders to strengthen local efforts aimed at preventing abuse and promoting safer communities.
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The Chairman of MAP GBV and Traditional Ruler of Olumbanasa, Igwe Pius Omachonu, said the “outreach was designed to encourage residents and community leaders to take proactive measures against gender-based violence”.
He emphasised the need for respect, shared family responsibilities and healthy relationships as essential tools for reducing violence within communities.
Facilitators at the event, Hajia Musbaudeen Medinat and Mrs Favour Abarah, explained that gender-based violence encompasses harmful acts committed against individuals based on their gender, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.
They noted that victims often suffer physical injuries, emotional trauma, reproductive health challenges and lasting psychological effects.
The resource persons identified various forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, emotional and economic violence, as well as forced and child marriage, sexual harassment and discriminatory cultural practices.
They urged community members to reject all forms of violence and foster open dialogue within homes and society.
Speaking on the plight of persons with disabilities, the Anambra State Chairman of Persons with Disabilities, Comrade Ugochukwu Okoeke, observed that many victims within the disability community face barriers in accessing justice and support services.
He called for stronger inclusion measures and improved protection systems to ensure that survivors receive adequate assistance.
The sensitisation programme forms part of broader efforts by the state government and its development partners to strengthen grassroots responses to gender-based violence, expand access to support services and build safer, healthier and more inclusive communities across Anambra State.
