By; SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri
Borno State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in collaboration with Grassroots Network in Nigeria Gender-Based Survivors , Resilience Initiatives and Tree Planting with a theme, “Strengthening Survivors -Led Networks to support victims of conflict -related Sexual Violence in Nigeria (CRSV) has held a one day workshop on Friday at Borno State Women Auditorium, Musa Usman Secretariat Maiduguri.
The State Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Zuwaira Gambo in her address while launching the Nigerian Gender Based Survivors Network and Tree Planting Campaigns said the meeting was aimed at sensitizing the participants on sexual violence and it’s consequences , the way forward and measures to end it in conflict environment.
She also highlighted on the needs, significance and impact of self reliance and empowerment while stressing the significance of care, live and concern for the general der based survivors who have beed exposed to psychosocial trauma problems among others sufferings and hardships.
The commissioner added that programmes are funded by the German Federal Agency for Foreign Affairs and facilitated by the ministry and other partners like dr. Denis Mukwege Foundation, Grassroots Researchers Association and YIAT who jointly implemented the programmes in for the overall benefits and development of th gender survivors in the conflict areas.
“I stand before you today to mark the culmination of the Project Close-Up Programme and the inauguration of the Nigerian Gender-Based Survivors Network, alongside our Tree Planting Campaign.
” Today’s event signifies not justthe end of one journey, but the beginning of many more as we collectively strive to foster a safer, more inclusive, and greener Borno State,” Zuwaira said.
She expressed her appreciation and profound gratitude to all thepartners, stakeholders and every individual who has contributed to the success of the Project Close-UpProgramme, saying,” Your unwavering commitment and relentless efforts have made a significant impact in our community, providing invaluable support to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and empowering them to rebuild theirlives with dignity and hope.”
According to her, “the launch of the Nigerian Gender-Based Survivors Network today is a landmark achievement hence the network is not merely a platform but a lifeline, offering survivors a community of support, advocacy, and resources.
“It symbolizes our collective resolve to combat gender-based Violence and ensure that survivors are not just heard but are given the necessary tools to thrive. We envisage this network growing into a robust support system that willfoster solidarity, encourage healing, and drive policy changes to protect and uplift those affected by GBV.
“In conjunction with this, we are proud to launch our Tree PlantingCampaign, an initiative thatembodies environmental sustainability community development. By planting trees, we are taking tangible steps to combat climate change, enhance ourenvironment, and promote a culture of conservation and ecological responsibility,” Hon. Gambo said.
The commissioner further said that the campaign is a testament toour belief in holistic development where social progress to and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. commitment.
She noted also that, “We must continue to advocate for the rights and welfare of women and girls, support survivors of violence, and promote sustainable development practices. Each of us has a role to play, and together, we can create a Borno State that is safe, equitable, and green.
“I urge everyone present to take this message to heart and to act in their capacities to support these initiatives. Let us work together to build a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from violence and inharmony with our environment,” Hajiya Zuwaira added.
Earlier, Babagana Kanuribe, the Director Finance, Initiative for Community Health and Crisis Response (ICHCR) advised the participants proper savings, advantages and prudent management of petty businesses as well as how to reduce and control risk in a business.
He also spoke on the importance of empowerment and entrepreneurship as well as self employment at this critical time of economic recession while urging them to make meaningful utilization of the skills they acquired kits and tools given to them and dedicate themselves to their skills
While the Coordinator of Gender Based Survivors,Fatima Buba Sale thanked all the stakeholders and partners for their guidance, coy selling and support especially the Hon. Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Zuwaira whom they regard as a mother, leader and grad mother of women, girls and orphans.
The Coordinator of Grassroots Researchers Association, Mr. Timothy also expressed appreciation and gratitude to the partners, participants,and other stakeholders for their support, cooperation and contributions.
