GENDER BASED VIOLENCE
Gender-based violence (GBV is one of the most widespread human rights abuses globally, impacting people of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. The Nkemjika Foundation is taking a bold, proactive approach to this urgent issue. Through creative initiatives, strategic partnerships, and unwavering dedication, the foundation is at the forefront of fostering safer communities and empowering those affected.
UNDERSTANDING GENDER BASED VIOENCE
GBV encompasses harmful actions directed at individuals due to their gender, manifesting as physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse. These actions often stem from unequal power relationships and ingrained cultural norms. Statistics show that millions, especially women and girls, experience GBV daily, continuing cycles of poverty, inequality, and psychological trauma.
Aspiring for a world without GBV, where individuals can prosper without violence or discrimination, the Nkemjika Foundation’s mission includes:
- Prevention: Educating communities to challenge detrimental norms and behaviours.
- Support: Offering extensive services for survivors, such as safe spaces, counselling, and legal support.
- Advocacy: Pushing for robust laws and enforcement measures to deter wrong doers.
Core Initiatives and Programs
Community Outreach and Education
- Facilitates workshops and seminars targeting local communities.
- Covers topics like gender equality, recognising GBV, and intervention strategies.
- Works with religious and traditional leaders to confront cultural practices that permit GBV.
- Survivor Support Services
- Establishes safe havens for those escaping dangerous situations.
- Provides complimentary counselling, focusing on emotional recovery and empowerment.
- Offers legal aid to assist survivors in navigating complex legal systems.
- Youth Empowerment Programs
- School-based projects teach young people about respectful relationships and consent.
- Leadership programs aimed at empowering girls, boosting their self-confidence and autonomy.
- Uses sports and arts as a medium for dialogue and emotional healing.
- Advocacy for Policy Reform
- Partners with governments and NGOs to shape policies that protect victims.
- Advocates for the enforcement of stricter punishments for GBV offenders.
- Regularly releases reports and studies to spotlight shortcomings in justice and service provision.
- Community Justice Centers
- Collaborates to set up centres where GBV can be reported and immediate help is available.
- These centres offer mediation, legal services, and links to medical care.
CHALLENGES
Challenges and the Path Forward
Despite remarkable achievements, challenges remain:
- Underreporting of GBV cases: Fear of stigma and retaliation prevents many victims from seeking assistance.
- Limited resources: Expanding programs and accessing remote areas demands substantial funding.
- Cultural resistance: Deep-rooted traditions often oppose gender equality.To tackle these hurdles, the Nkemjika Foundation plans to:
- Strengthen partnerships with international bodies for enhanced funding and expertise.
- Introduce digital platforms to educate and engage more widely.
- Amplify grassroots efforts to break cultural barriers.
The Nkemjika Foundation’s struggle against gender-based violence underscores its dedication to human rights and social equity. By targeting the root causes, aiding survivors, and pushing for systemic reform, the foundation is paving the way for a society where everyone can live without fear or violence. This endeavour not only inspires but also calls upon individuals and groups to join the battle against GBV. United, change is within reach.
IMPACT OF THE FOUNDATIONS’S WORKS
Since its founding, the Nkemjika Foundation has made significant progress in combatting GBV:
- Empowering survivors: Hundreds have benefitted from counselling, legal assistance, and vocational training, helping them rebuild their lives.
- Policy influence: Advocacy efforts have helped strengthen protective laws in various regions.
- Cultural transformation: Communities are beginning to embrace more open-minded views on gender roles and rights.
IMPACT OF THE FOUNDATIONS’S WORKS
Since its founding, the Nkemjika Foundation has made significant progress in combatting GBV:
- Empowering survivors: Hundreds have benefitted from counselling, legal assistance, and vocational training, helping them rebuild their lives.
- Policy influence: Advocacy efforts have helped strengthen protective laws in various regions.
- Cultural transformation: Communities are beginning to embrace more open-minded views on gender roles and rights.
Flood Relieve Outreach (2023)
In the wake of devastating floods that left the community of Oguta in Imo State grappling with loss and hardship, Nkemjika Development Foundation stood tall in solidarity responded swiftly providing crucial aid. Our flood relief outreach included clothing, food, and medication, offering immediate support to families grappling with displacement.