By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Borno State Government in collaboration with the National Center and Diseases Control (NCDC) and COVID 19 Preparedness and Response Project (COPREP) with funding from the World Bank have organized a stakeholders capacity building training on sexual violence, abuse and harassment for selected participants drawn across the religious, community, health, women and Human Rights organizations from the 27 LGAs of the state.
In his opening remark, the Borno State Commissioner of Health and Human Resources, Professor Baba Malam Gana represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Barrister Garba Musa Chibok said the workshop is not only a step towards justice for survivors but also a testament to the resilience and strength of a community determined to uphold the rights and safety of its most vulnerable members.
He added that as part of its significant stride toward safeguarding the dignity and well-being of its citizens, Borno State has rolled out a comprehensive action plan workshop to prevent and punish acts of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) and Sexual Harassment (SH).
According to him, the initiative was made possible through the financial aid of the World Bank and being spearheaded by the Borno State Ministry of Health and Human Services and Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in partnership with National Center and Diseases Control (NCDC) and COVID 19 Preparedness and Response Project (COPREP).
The Commissioner noted that the launching of the workshop coincided with the global push for the protection of human rights and the empowerment of women and children, which represents a concerted effort to address the scourge of sexual violence that has been on the rise in the region.
“With participants drawn from the 27 LGAs of the state including religious and traditional rulers, this strategic move is a part of the state’s rigorous efforts to address and curtail the rampant cases of sexual exploitation that have plagued the region, exacerbated by the ongoing conflicts and recognizing the important role that all stakeholders play in the prevention and response to such issues of Gender-Based Violence,” Prof. Gana said.
He also emphasized government’s commitment to continue to protect its citizens from sexual abuses and other offenses.
The workshop was facilitated by experts across the humanitarian and development sectors with topics ranging from the key SEA/SH concepts, IASC policy framework and principles, Bulletin 2003, survivor centered approach and the GBV guiding principles.
“With the backing of the World Bank, we are setting in motion a series of measures that not only aim to prevent Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), Sexual Harassment (SH), but also ensure that justice is served to the victims of such heinous acts.
“The participatory nature of the workshop seek to empower local leaders and communities, turning them into vanguards against SEA/SH. In the pursuit of a comprehensive response to the complex issues of SEA/SH, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the multidisciplinary training emerges as a beacon of knowledge and collaboration.
“With a resolute objective to empower stakeholders, ranging from government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to community leaders, this initiative seeks to cultivate a holistic understanding of the intricate interlinkages between SEA/SH, GBV, and broader gender-related issues.
“The workshop set the stage for the Safeguards Team and service providers by familiarize with their pivotal roles, responsibilities, and ethical considerations while employing a methodology that involves orientation and sensitization, the content dives into the nuances of ethical conduct and the cultural sensitivity indispensable in dealing with survivors.
“Simultaneously, the Practical Simulations and Drills component delves into the enhancement of practical skills. Through scenario-based drills and simulations mirroring real-life situations, the Safeguards Team and service providers engaged in the application of reporting and response procedures.
“This immersive training approach not only evaluates responses but also identifies areas for improvement, ensuring a robust and responsive network dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of the community,” the commissioner said.
He further explained that the financial investment by the World Bank highlights the international community’s commitment to supporting regions like Borno in their fight against SEA and SH.
The Borno State Commissioner of Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development , Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo represented by the Director, Women Affairs, Hajiya Falmata Omar acknowledged the gravity of the situation in the state couple with the displacement of women and girls and the urgency required in addressing it especially, resettlement of IDPs from their camps.actoss the state back to their ancestral homes.
“As the action plan is put into motion, called upon all sectors of society to join forces and contribute to a societal transformation where sexual violence is not just punished but also prevented.
” The Ministry’s commitment under the leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State; Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum to create a safer and more enabling environment for all residents in Borno State is well commendable and visible,” Zuwaira said.
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