Women's Crisis Center (WCC), Imo State

Empowering Women in Umuaka: Reducing Violence Against Women and Girls

Challenge:

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated an existing problem: violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Umuaka Village, Imo State. Lockdowns due to the pandemic trapped victims with their abusers, leading to a surge in reported cases. However, the WCC recognized that many barriers prevented women from reporting violence, including social stigma and a lack of awareness about their rights.

Our Intervention:

To address these challenges, the WCC partnered with LSIV to develop a comprehensive approach to reducing VAWG in Umuaka. The project focused on two key areas:

Community Understanding: A 4-day focus group discussion was conducted with police officers, community women leaders, and nurses at the Umuaka Community Hospital. This discussion provided crucial insights into local attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors surrounding VAWG. This understanding was vital for designing effective interventions tailored to the specific needs of the Umuaka community.
Education and Awareness:
- School Programs: Consent and sexual abuse sensitization programs were delivered in primary and secondary schools, reaching over 500 students.
- Community Outreach: 400 child-friendly "MYBIM Consent Education" booklets were distributed in schools and villages. These booklets were also transformed into posters displayed in strategic locations like churches, markets, police stations, and public streets.

Impact:

A survey report
Media

Women leaders vowed to stop FGM and work with the young women to fight GBV
This project addressed VAWG at its root by empowering the future generation and the current community. School programs equip young people with the knowledge and skills to recognize and prevent abuse. Community outreach materials raised awareness about consent, sexual abuse, and available support services.

By working collaboratively with the Umuaka community, the WCC's project created a safer environment for women and girls. This approach, informed by local perspectives, has the potential to be replicated in other communities facing similar challenges.