SAFE HOME, SAFE COMMUNITY PROJECT
A Community Engagement Project Against SGBV
Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) is a significant issue in Nigeria and around the world. While some countries have measures to address and punish SGBV, Nigeria is experiencing an increase in cases, making it challenging for survivors to seek justice. Cultural and religious beliefs, fear, silence, reprisals, harmful gender norms, and male dominance contribute to the prevalence of SGBV, with females being the most affected.
Advocacy for a world free Gender-Based Violence
The United Nations launched the annual “16 Days of Activism” campaign in 1991 to advocate for a world free of Gender-Based Violence. In response to this, PRIMORG initiated the “Speak Up Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence” educational intervention, which involved hosting radio programs and conducting awareness visits to secondary schools. This project aims to guide individuals on how to report threats, actual incidents, and repression related to sexual and gender-based violence.
The rise of SGBV in Nigeria is alarming and is exacerbated by entrenched cultural norms, patriarchal structures, and social stigmas that silence victims and protect perpetrators. Additionally, societal pressure and the lack of effective legal recourse make justice elusive for survivors.
The Holistic Approach
This holistic approach of combining education, media outreach, and community engagement is essential in reshaping attitudes and making progress in reducing SGBV in Nigeria. There is an urgent need for more robust policies, enforcement, and societal change to address this issue
The United Nations "16 Days of Activism" campaign and PRIMORG's intervention
The United Nations “16 Days of Activism” campaign and PRIMORG’s intervention are crucial in raising awareness and advocating for a world free of Gender-Based Violence. PRIMORG’s approach, which includes radio programs and school visits, not only educates young people but also provides them with the means to seek help and support. Engaging with young people is vital as it challenges harmful gender norms and empowers them to speak up against injustice.
