by Grace Anaja
Addressing gender-based violence requires the active involvement of individuals within their communities. It is crucial to recognize the importance of individual actions and efforts in preventing such acts of violence. Gender-based violence refers to any act that results in physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to individuals based on their gender. It is a pervasive problem that affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and social statuses.
In order to address this issue effectively, it is important for individuals to recognize the significance of their role in preventing gender-based violence. By actively getting involved in their communities, individuals can contribute towards creating safe and inclusive spaces for everyone.
One way individuals can make a difference is by promoting awareness and education about gender-based violence. This can include organizing workshops, seminars, or awareness campaigns to educate others about the various forms of violence and its impact on victims. By spreading knowledge and understanding, individuals can help break the cycle of silence surrounding this issue.
“2 Years ago I interned for a primary Health care facility in a rural area of the southern part of Nigeria. Here, there was a heavy stereotype that girls/women are only recognized in society when they’re in their husbands houses and must have bore children. Young girls from age 14 will leave their homes to live with boys/men just to begin their own families so as to be counted among relevant persons, this bred violence against girls and numerous health challenges resulting from such relationships.
I took it upon myself with the aid of other medical personnel to embark on house to house sensitization on dangers of early marriage which could affect SRH(sexual reproductive health), gradually the leaders of the LGA supported us to host a sensitization campaign and conducted free medical checks for girls.”
Catherine Eduep (SEGEI Team member)
Another important aspect of prevention is challenging harmful attitudes and beliefs that perpetuate gender-based violence. Individuals can engage in conversations with family members, friends, colleagues, and community leaders to promote respectful relationships based on equality and consent. By challenging traditional norms that condone violence or discrimination against women and girls, individuals can contribute towards creating a culture of respect and non-violence.
Individuals also have a responsibility to support survivors of gender-based violence by providing them with empathy, resources, and access to appropriate services. This includes encouraging survivors to seek help from support organizations or reporting incidents to relevant authorities.
“Being a public health enthusiast, I use every opportunity I have to educate and advocate for female education and empowerment. This passion was birthed by the findings from my research on child abuse among adolescents carried out 2 years ago in selected secondary school students in Lagos State.
Also, as a health care provider in Lagos State, I’m privileged to serve as a focal person for domestic and sexual violence for my health facility. I create awareness/educate, manage cases, counsel and report the same to the appropriate authorities notably Lagos DSVA.”
Adejoke Adepoju (SEGEI Team member)
Ultimately, preventing gender-based violence requires collective action at both individual and community levels. Each person has an important role to play in creating a society where everyone feels safe and respected regardless of their gender identity or expression. By taking proactive steps towards prevention within their own communities in Nigeria, individuals can contribute towards building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
