The Participation Initiative for Behavioural Change in Development (PIBCID), a sub-grantee organization under the 4th Edition of Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Institutional Strengthening project funded by the Ford Foundation through the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, recently carried out a groundbreaking 3-day sensitization exercise in Kogi state.
The exercise, held from 15th to 17th August 2024, took place in three communities: OSISI (15th August), UJAGBA (16th August), and OKPACHALA (17th August) in IGALAMELA-ODOLU and ADAVI local government areas. The event targeted community women, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and challenges related to Gender-Based Violence (GBV). In partnership with the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN Kogi), PIBCID educated and empowered women to speak out against GBV and seek help when needed.
During the sensitization meeting, participants received free medical tests, including Instant Malaria Tests (IMT), Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsag), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) tests. This holistic approach addressed both the physical and emotional well-being of the women.
The sensitization exercise created a safe space for women to share their stories and experiences of GBV, debunking cultural myths that often silence them. By understanding what GBV entails, women can now identify and address it, seeking help and support when needed
