Organize same sex focus group discussions to elicit perceptions of sexual violence
Same-sex focus groups were one of the strategies adopted by REWAC to address the issue of SGBV in communities. Altogether, 7 same-sex focus groups were organized in the communities. 2 were organized in Wum, 1 in Belo, and 4 in Bamendakwe. There were 15 participants in each focus group with 6 of them being female focus groups and 1 being male. Issues discussed during the FGD sessions were around the understanding of community members about GBV, the various forms of GBV encountered in the community, the profile of survivors as well as that of perpetrators, the effect of SGBV on survivors, the attitudes of the community towards survivors and perpetrators, the type of support services available to the community and the access to these services by survivors. These sessions helped the project team have a better understanding of the community norms as concerns SGBV, helping them better tailor their activities to efficiently respond to the needs of the population. Output: 7 focus group discussions were held with 7 same sex groups it 105 participants (90 female and 15 male). Outcome: In-depth understanding of perceptions of sexual violence through Insights gained from the focus group discussions provide a comprehensive understanding of the perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs related to sexual violence among participants Identification of barriers and challenges as participants contribute to identifying barriers and challenges that prevent individuals from reporting or seeking support for sexual violence, highlighting gaps in services and interventions. Generation of recommendations and strategies through participants collaboratively develop recommendations and strategies to address sexual violence, taking into account the specific needs and concerns of the same-sex community.
Conduct workshops with police officers on DA, sexual offences legislation and related issues
The workshops with police officers on DA, sexual offenses legislation and related issues took place on the 24th of June at Hill Top Hotel with 35 (25 male, 10 female) officers present. Key highlights of the workshop included: Presentation on the nature, dynamics, and prevalence of domestic violence and sexual offenses, the impact of DV and sexual offenses on survivors and the community, and an overview of relevant national and international laws, including the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) and sexual offenses legislation. Comprehensive training on the Domestic Violence Act (DVA), including its provisions, definitions, and legal obligations; the legal procedures and steps involved in responding to domestic violence cases; and the role of the police in ensuring the safety and protection of survivors. Investigation of sexual offences, including consent, collection of evidence, and forensic procedures; the sensitivities and challenges encountered during sexual offences investigations and an overview of victim-centered approaches and trauma-informed interviewing techniques. providing effective support and assistance to domestic violence and sexual offences survivors; techniques for empathetic communication, active listening, and building trust and an overview of referral pathways and available support services for survivors. Discussion on the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing domestic violence and sexual offences; and coordinating responses with relevant stakeholders, such as social services, healthcare professionals, and legal practitioners. Maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and unbiased attitudes when responding to DV and sexual offences cases; the importance of addressing personal biases and cultural stereotypes and an overview of ethical guidelines and codes of conduct for police officers. Output: One workshop was facilitated to educate 35 police officers on relevant laws, procedures, and best practices related to SGBV. Outcome: Enhanced understanding and increased competency of police officers in handling SGBV cases and providing support to survivors. A Post-training survey conducted after the workshops shows a 40% increase in police officers’ awareness of SGBV legislation, DVA and improved attitudes towards survivors.
STOP GBV campaign using community football as a platform to integrate sport and anti-GBV education sessions
The initiative supports community-led sustainable development through participatory planning workshops, leveraging local knowledge, training in eco-friendly techniques, establishing village savings and loan associations, supporting women’s collectives, strengthening community forestry management, promoting local innovations, and advocating for increased investments in grassroots development. Organizing participatory planning workshops bringing together diverse stakeholders Leveraging local knowledge and priorities to guide project design and implementation Facilitating training in eco-friendly techniques like agroforestry, watershed management Establishing village savings and loan associations for self-managed local financing Supporting women’s collectives in producing and marketing indigenous foodstuffs Strengthening community forestry management groups for sustainable fuelwood supply Promoting local innovations and appropriate technologies enhancing sustainability Building evidence on effective community-driven models for replication and scaling Advocating for increased investments in grassroots community development”
Awareness session with youth Drivers and bike Riders
The Refugee Welfare Association carried out 2 separate awareness sessions were held for bike riders and drivers. That for drivers took place on the 11th of April 2023 at Bamendankwe with 20 participants (20 males) present and that for bike riders took place the 11th of July at Wum with 20 participants (20 males) present. There were sessions held with the drivers and the bike riders after which the participants led the project team to the field to sensitize with their colleagues, reaching to an additional 128 more sensitized. Key highlights of the 2 sessions included: Definition, forms, and prevalence of gender-based violence, Discussion on the importance of recognizing and addressing SGBV in society and the impact of SGBV on individuals, families, and communities. Specific types of SGBV that may occur within the transportation sector, power dynamics, harassment, and discrimination faced by women and marginalized groups in transportation settings with a review of case studies and real-life examples to illustrate the experiences of survivors and the consequences of SGBV. the role and responsibility of drivers and bike riders in preventing and responding to SGBV as well as bystander intervention techniques and strategies to promote a safe and respectful environment. Promoting respectful and safe transportation practices and fostering a culture of respect, consent, and gender equality among drivers and bike riders. Effective communication and active listening skills to enhance interactions with passengers and fellow transportation workers and strategies for handling difficult situations and conflicts in a non-violent and respectful manner. Reporting mechanisms and available support services for survivors of SGBV, how to appropriately respond and refer survivors to relevant assistance and means of collaboration with local organizations and authorities to strengthen support systems within the transportation sector. Output: 2 awareness sessions organized for taxi drivers and bike riders, covering various locations and reaching a total of 168 participants. Outcomes: As a result of the campaign, 100% of taxi drivers and bike riders implemented the in the campaign to sensitize peers on measures to prevent gender-based violence.
Sensitization on DA and Sexual offences Legislation and GB on TV & radio
The sessions started running in the month of May. 3 radio stations where selected ABAKWA FM, AFRIQUE NOUVELLE RADIO, DREAM FM based wide range listeners in the northwest region (audiences ranging from 10.000- 50.000 listeners). Contract was signed with these radio stations. Radio advocacy was held during the project. 1hour session was held every Friday to discuss on GBV and Domestic Violence Act. The topics treated included: SGBV Domestic Violence Act and Sexual offence legislation SGBV Definition, types, causes, effects, survivor and perpetrators, SGVB Prevention, Response and the referral pathway. SGBV and the Law; Sanctions for perpetrators Clinical Management of Rape Family Planning Menstrual Hygiene STIs/HIV GBV and Child Protection Referral Pathway
Training with traditional, religious, community leaders on GBV & its consequences for the whole of the community;
The training workshop took place on the 11th o May at with 50 participants (38 male, 12 female) present. Key highlights of the workshop included: The concept, forms, and prevalence of gender-based violence, its impact on individuals, families, and communities as well as the root causes of SGBV and its intersection with cultural and social norms. The role of traditional, religious, and community leaders in promoting and enforcing these laws; gaps and challenges in implementing SGBV-related policies at the community level. The wide-ranging consequences of SGBV for individuals, families, and the entire community; the socio-economic, health, and psychological impacts of SGBV. Identifying and challenging harmful gender norms and practices within the community; traditional beliefs, stereotypes, and roles that perpetuate SGBV; and promoting gender equality, respect, and consent within cultural and religious contexts. The influential role that traditional, religious, and community leaders have in shaping community attitudes and behaviors; strategies to leverage leadership positions for promoting gender equality and preventing SGBV; and best practices and success stories from other communities where leaders have played a pivotal role. Effective communication techniques to engage community members in discussions on SGBV. Output: One Training sessions conducted for traditional, religious, and community leaders: A series of training sessions organized, reaching a total of 50 traditional, religious, and community leaders. Outcome: Increased awareness and understanding of GBV (Post-training evaluation reveals a 40% increase in knowledge and understanding of GBV, including its forms, causes, consequences, and available support services among traditional, religious, and community leaders) Community-wide awareness and prevention as trained leaders initiated community-wide awareness campaigns, resulting in an increase in community members’ knowledge about GBV, its consequences, and prevention strategies.
Awareness sessions in schools during morning devotion in 8 schools in the north west
Primary schools and secondary schools with existing guidance and counseling offices where targeted, four awareness sessions was held in those schools, and discussions was centered on protection mechanism from SGBV and encouraging the students to visit their guidance and counseling office to report any sexual crime from teachers or students During these sessions, REWAC trained the counselors on how to be child-friendly in handling the student’s and pupils cases.The SGBV case manager in REWAC and the counselor work in partnership in listening to the school children. In St Fredrick, a Girls Club has been created to discuss SGBV-related issues and to sensitize the school twice per month on SGBV during morning devotion. In GTHS, a Boys Club has been created to carry out a He for Her campaign to sensitize boys on the disadvantages SGBV. Within the awareness session, more children visited the counselor’s office to express themselves. Which was not the case before. Discussions was on the following . Definition, forms, and prevalence of gender-based violence, the impact of SGBV on individuals, families, and communities and root causes of SGBV and its intersection with cultural and social norms. Introduction to human rights and the rights of women and girls, responsibilities of individuals and society in ensuring equal rights and opportunities and ways to advocate for gender equality and challenge discriminatory practices. Reporting mechanisms and available support services for survivors of SGBV, the importance of believing and supporting survivors and how to appropriately respond and refer individuals affected by SGBV to relevant assistance. Empowerment of students to become peer educators and advocates for gender equality and SGBV prevention and Strategies for organizing awareness campaigns, workshops, and peer support groups within schools.
Activities for International Women’s Day May
The Women’s Day 2023 activities which were to take place in March were finally programmed and took place on the 4th of May 2023. This was held at the Women Empowerment Center of the Bamenda I sub-division with 55 participants. The key highlights of the day included: There was a keynote speech from the Programmes Manager who noted it is imperative that we strive for a society where everyone, regardless of gender, is granted the same opportunities, rights, and respect. She indicated that gender equality is not a mere concept; it is a fundamental human right that helps us unlock the immense potential that lies within every individual, regardless of their gender. She clarified that it is not about favoring one gender over another; it is about creating a level playing field where talent, hard work, and dedication are the sole factors that determine success. She further explained the benefits of gender equality on the community, especially in the social and economic context. She then expressed the need for addressing and eradicating SGBV by eradicating violence and ensuring justice for survivors, so that that no one should live in fear because of their gender. She called on all present to work together to ensure that we create a world where equality is not a distant goal but a lived reality for all. There was also a Panel Discussion: “Empowering Women in the Rural setting”: The discussion featuring the project officer, the regional delegate for social affair and 2 prominent women in community who shared their experiences and insights on how the rural woman can be empowered as a means to curb SGBV in our communities and fostering gender equality. The Panel equally explored some challenges faced by women in their respective fields and strategies for overcoming them. There were cultural performances, such as music, dance, drama, and poetry, celebrating the achievements of women and promoting gender equality. This was an opportunity of women from the various communities to showcase their talents through performances that aimed at challenging gender stereotypes and amplify women’s voices. There was also the distribution of educational materials, brochures, and posters promoting women’s rights, backed by presentation available support services and success stories related to gender equality and SGBV prevention. The activities ended with a call for action where participants were inspired to take concrete actions toward gender equality. They were also encouraged to make personal pledges to promote gender equality in their daily lives, workplaces, schools, and communities. Output: Workshops and training sessions on topics such as gender equality, women’s rights, and GBV prevention for community members and stakeholders.
Training workshop with medical staff in health clinic and hospital in clinical management of rape
The training workshop took place on the 21st of April 2023 at the Military Hospital Up Station with 20 participants (6 males, 14 females) present. Key highlights of the workshop included: Presentation on the nature, dynamics, and prevalence of sexual assault; the physical, psychological, and emotional impact of sexual assault on survivors; and overview of relevant national and international laws and guidelines related to the management of sexual assault cases. Providing compassionate, survivor-centered care to survivors of sexual assault, techniques for empathetic communication, active listening, and building trust; and discussion on trauma-informed approaches and their application in the healthcare setting. Examination of sexual assault survivors, techniques for evidence collection, preservation, and documentation and an overview of sexual assault forensic kits and their proper utilization. Medical evaluation and treatment of sexual assault survivors, the identification and management of physical injuries, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and pregnancy prevention; and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV and other relevant medications. Accurate and comprehensive documentation of medical findings and interventions; the importance of maintaining confidentiality, privacy, and data protection; and reporting obligations and procedures, including mandatory reporting and anonymous reporting options. Ethical considerations in the management of sexual assault cases; self-care strategies for medical professionals working with survivors of sexual assault; and available resources and support networks for healthcare providers. Output: Provide 1 training session to 20 medical staff on the proper protocols and procedures for treating survivors of sexual violence. Outcome: Improved quality of care and support provided to survivors of rape in health clinics and hospitals (post-training assessments reveal a 35% improvement in medical staff’s knowledge and skills in providing sensitive and comprehensive care to survivors). Increased sensitivity and survivor-centered approach (Post-training evaluation reveals a 10% increase in medical professionals’ ability to provide empathetic and trauma-informed care to survivors).
Conduct regional workshops with frontline workers & implementing partners
The training workshop took place on the 14th of April with 45 participants 18 male, 27 female) officers present. 2 consultants were hired to carry out the training. Key highlights of the workshop included: Presentation on the concept, forms, and prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence, the impact of SGBV on individuals, families, and communities, and relevant national and international laws, policies, and frameworks. Providing survivor-centered care and support to SGBV survivors, empathetic communication, active listening, and building trust and discussion on trauma-informed approaches and their application in service provision. Effective case management for SGBV survivors, referral pathways and coordination mechanisms among different service providers and the importance of inter-agency collaboration and information sharing. Providing psychosocial support to SGBV survivors, trauma-informed counseling, crisis intervention, and emotional support. Legal framework and justice system’s response to SGBV, the importance of legal remedies, protection orders, and access to justice for survivors, and reporting mechanisms and support available for survivors throughout legal processes. Strategies for preventing SGBV at the individual, community, and societal levels; community mobilization, awareness raising, and behavior change campaigns; and successful SGBV prevention interventions and lessons learned. Strategies for resource mobilization and sustainability of SGBV programs and innovative approaches for sustaining SGBV initiatives. There was the presentation of social and protective services by the Regional Delegate of Social Affairs and a presentation on referral and the referral system by the regional delegate of Women Affairs and Empowerment of the Family; and Output: A workshop to engage 45 frontline workers and partners in the prevention and response to SGBV was organized Outcome: Strengthened collaboration and coordination among frontline workers and implementing partners to address SGBV effectively. As a result of the workshops, 55% of participants report increased collaboration and exchange of best practices among organizations working on SGBV. Enhanced knowledge and skills of frontline workers and implementing partners; post-workshop evaluation reveals a 30% increase in knowledge and skills related to GBV prevention, identification, and response among participants.