Uniting Communities to End Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria

Wairimu Mwangi

December 23, 2024

To mark the 2024 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, the Global Peace Women (GPW) Nigeria, in partnership with the Hope for the Village Child Foundation (HVCF), organized a transformative two-day interactive session as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. The event took place on December 10-11, 2024, at HVCF’s conference hall in Kaduna, bringing together over 120 participants from two diverse communities in Kaduna State: Chikaji and Sabongari Kufana.

Global Peace Women’s dedication to uplifting women in peacebuilding leadership roles makes them a key partner in Global Peace Foundation’s aim to safeguard healthy families as the foundation of peaceful societies.

The program uniquely blended community dialogue, education, and advocacy to address deeply rooted cultural practices perpetuating gender-based violence (GBV). The sessions fostered discussions between men and women, emphasizing collective responsibility in eliminating harmful practices.

In a waiting area, a group sits together—a woman in a white dress cradles her baby, flanked by two men. Their shared presence symbolizes uniting communities against challenges faced in regions like Nigeria.

Participants in a workshop addressing gender-based violence hosted by GPW Nigeria

The first day focused on men, engaging 40 participants in a compelling session that included the screening of documentaries on female genital mutilation (FGM) and other forms of violence against women. Discussions highlighted the cultural and health implications of such practices. By the end of the day, men acknowledged the need to discard harmful traditions and committed to adopting modern approaches that respect women’s rights and well-being.

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, Country Director, Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Nigeria, stressed the importance of men as advocates for change, stating, “Any man who abuses a woman in any form does not understand his religion. We must treat women with love and care, as prescribed by all faiths.”

In a room adorned with banners on empowering families in peacebuilding, a woman addresses the audience passionately about uniting communities. Participants from Nigeria sit and listen attentively, eager to learn how they can combat gender-based violence together.

Mrs. Lois Hayab guiding participants to identify the various forms of violence against women in their respective communities

The second day brought men and women together for deeper discussions on GBV and family dynamics. Sessions led by facilitators such as Rev. Sr. Marie and Mrs. Lois Hayab, wife of Country Director, GPF Nigeria explored the effects of FGM, early marriages, economic exploitation, and other forms of violence. Participants developed actionable plans, including establishing paralegal groups, conducting market and religious sensitizations, and amplifying community advocacy.

Rev. Sr. Juliana Ekwoannya, Head of Admin at HVCF, emphasized the urgency of addressing GBV in rural settings where cultural practices often serve as justifications for abuse. “Strengthening families is crucial to fostering peaceful coexistence and mitigating violence,” she said.

A woman in a headscarf stands in front of a banner that reads "Empowering Families in Peace Building" at a Global Peace Foundation Nigeria event, focused on uniting communities and addressing gender-based violence.

Hajiya Fatima Abdulsalam from the UNICEF Office in Kaduna adding her voice to the conversation

The program successfully enhanced public awareness of GBV and the legal frameworks addressing it, fostered empathy and understanding for GBV survivors, initiated interfaith collaboration between Muslim and Christian communities, and established community-driven action plans to prevent GBV.

Participants expressed gratitude for the program’s impact. Mallam Yunusa Abdullahi Chikaji acknowledged the session’s eye-opening nature, vowing to champion change within his community. Saratu Adamu shared her surprise at her husband’s newfound respect for women after attending the men’s session, noting, “The transformation is already visible, and I am hopeful for a better future.”

The Kaduna program exemplifies GPW’s mission to strengthen families and uplift women’s value and dignity. By engaging men and women as equal partners in combating gender-based violence, the initiative reinforced family bonds and promoted peaceful coexistence across religious and cultural divides. This approach aligns with GPW’s belief that peace begins in the home, with families serving as the foundation of a harmonious society.

Looking ahead, GPW Nigeria and HVCF plan to expand this impactful program to other communities, ensuring that the message of “Peace Begins in the Home” resonates widely. Together, these organizations continue to champion a vision where all individuals live free from violence and with dignity.