By Gilla Everdine
A rallying cry against gender-based violence (GBV) echoed across the North West Region on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, as human rights groups, NGOs, and the Regional Delegation for Women’s Empowerment joined forces to officially launch the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Held under the theme “Responding and Rebuilding After the Abuse,” the annual global campaign, which began on November 25, seeks to raise awareness and mobilize action to combat GBV.
The launch event in Bamenda brought together a wide array of stakeholders, including community leaders, survivors of GBV, government officials, and activists. The gathering underscored the collective responsibility to address this pressing issue and inspired a call to action for all sectors of society to contribute to eradicating GBV.
Speaking at the event, Wirba Hassan, the Regional Delegate for Women’s Empowerment and the Family, highlighted the concerning statistics surrounding GBV in the region. “From January to November 2024, we have recorded over 350 reported cases of GBV, but we estimate that more than 1,500 cases remain unreported,” he said. He encouraged survivors to break the silence, reach out to civil society organizations, and seek support. “We must stand together to build a society where women and girls live without fear of violence or discrimination.”
Wirba outlined key government efforts in partnership with organizations such as Doctors Without Borders, which operates integrated support units at the Regional Hospital to address GBV cases. He also acknowledged the role of UN Women in providing relief kits for vulnerable women and the contributions of Women Empowerment Centers, which offer training programs to help survivors gain economic independence and rebuild their self-confidence.
Nderem Mildred, Co-lead of Gitta and Executive Director of the Organization for Women Empowerment and Development, also addressed the audience. She stressed the importance of grassroots engagement, particularly in schools, to prevent GBV. “We educate communities about the root causes and consequences of GBV and provide psychosocial support, case management, socio-economic empowerment, and legal assistance through human rights defenders,” she said.
She added, “There is no justification for gender-based violence. It is a collective responsibility to stop it and support survivors in rebuilding their lives.”
The event also featured a sensitization caravan that moved through major streets in Bamenda, spreading awareness about the campaign. Participants carried placards with messages condemning GBV and pledging their commitment to advocacy and action.
The 16 Days of Activism in the North West Region will continue with various activities, including workshops, school outreach programs, and panel discussions involving community stakeholders. These events aim to strengthen community collaboration in addressing GBV, ensuring survivors receive support, and fostering a culture of prevention and accountability.
The campaign’s impact resonates as a beacon of hope, calling on society to “break the silence and end the violence.”
