16 Days of Activism

The Global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Against Women is an annual international campaign that originated from the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991. The campaign’s dates were strategically chosen to link Violence Against Women and Human Rights with an emphasis on Gender-Based Violence Against Women as a violation of human rights. Since 1991, the campaign has been active between November 25, the International Day Against Violence Against Women, and December 10, International Human Rights Day.                                                                                                    In line with our Organization’s Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) policy, CTA actively participated in the campaign by marking each day with inspiring quotes aimed at promoting the rights of women worldwide, particularly indigenous women and girls. CTA successfully marked the 16 days of Activism and celebrated the world’s Human Rights Day on December 10th, 2022.                                                                                                                                                                                                                        To wrap up the 16 days of Activism, CTA organized a road and market campaign, sensitizing people to the dangers of Gender-Based Violence Against Women. The event was a huge success, with a great turnout and active participation from different stakeholders. The campaign was a testament to CTA’s unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality and social inclusion.

OBJECTIVES                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         1.To show commitment to ending gender inequality, child marriage, and Gender-Based Violence                                                    2.To challenge evil cultural practices & mindsets that encourage violence against women and girls                                                  3.To sensitize people to the dangers of gender-based violence in strategic locations

OUTCOME / RESULTS FROM THE RALLY

• The campaign successfully increased public awareness of the dangers of Gender-Based Violence in targeted areas by broadcasting informative messages on the issue.
• CTA communicated these messages in various dialects, including Hausa, Igbo, Pidgin, English, and Idoma.
• CTA had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with passersby, addressing their concerns about the subject matter. This approach allowed for a more personalized approach to the campaign and enabled CTA to effectively educate and communicate with the public on this critical issue.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EVENT                                                                                                                                                                                                                The team started the road walk from the Ubiaja crescent of Garki 2 and proceeded to the Garki old market, broadcasting the messages on “End violence against women and Girls” in different dialects (Hausa, Igbo, Pidgin, English, and Idoma).                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                The team took questions from passers-by on the road and from the market. Clarifications were also given to people who informally want to share their experience and know more about the Organization.                                                                                          SOME OF THE QUESTIONS ASKED BY PASSERS-BY

1. There appears to be more advocacy on violence against women and girls, but what measures are in place to address the issue of violence against men?
2. A concerned woman reported that her daughter was raped by a neighbor. What steps can she take to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice?
3. In the case of a woman who is physically abusing her husband, what resources and support are available to address the situation?
4. Some individuals have expressed interest in learning more about CTA’s gender-focused work and the organization’s office address in the event of an alleged case.                                                                                                                                         CHALLENGES

• Because of budget constraints, there was a limited reach. CTA would like to cover a wider scope with the message of “End Violence Against Women and Girls” and explore other innovative ideas in conveying the message.

BEST PRACTICE

• CTA effectively communicated the campaign’s message to the public by using various local dialects to break language barriers and reach a wider audience.
• The organization prioritized the safety and security of attendees during the rally by engaging the services of the Nigeria Police Force for security coverage.
• CTA utilized its diverse social media platforms to effectively disseminate the campaign’s message to a broader audience.

RECOMMENDATIONS/NEXT STEPS

• Consistently conduct sensitization and awareness campaigns on gender-based violence, including violence against men.
• Produce and distribute informative flyers containing essential information on gender-based violence, reporting procedures, and relevant laws in Nigeria.
• Establish and maintain communication with individuals involved in sensitive cases, providing necessary follow-up and support.

CONCLUSION

At the conclusion of the campaign, CTA effectively provided answers and clarifications to passersby who expressed interest in learning more about the organization and its objectives in the area of gender-based violence awareness.