Empowering Communities in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence: The 16 Days of Activism Culmination Event.

As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) came to a powerful conclusion, we were reminded of the profound impact that grassroots initiatives can have in addressing this global issue. The culmination of the campaign was marked by a community-led event that demonstrated the strength and resolve of local communities in standing up against violence and advocating for change. 

This event, held in association with the Human Rights Commission, was not just an opportunity to reflect on the past, but a call to action for a future where gender-based violence is eradicated. The highlight of the event was an insightful panel discussion, which brought together a diverse group of community leaders, each playing a crucial role in the ongoing fight against GBV. This collaboration underscored the importance of community engagement and partnerships in combating GBV. 

The panel, which featured pastors, traditional authorities, government officials, and influential members of civil society, provided a platform for a dynamic exchange of ideas and strategies. Among the distinguished panelists was Ma @Che Florence, the community spokesperson for the AdjustForMe project in Mulang. As a dedicated councillor in Mankon, Ma Florence shared her invaluable contributions to fighting GBV, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs experienced on the frontlines of the battle against this violence. 

Her passionate advocacy for women’s rights and the prevention of gender-based violence resonated deeply with the audience. The conversation was enriched by the perspectives of local councilors, who shared their innovative strategies for addressing GBV within their communities. These community-led solutions included initiatives that encourage dialogue, raise awareness, and provide resources for survivors of violence. The panel discussion fostered an engaging and collaborative environment, allowing the audience to propose new ideas and methods that could further strengthen the fight against GBV. 

One of the most powerful messages that emerged from the panel was the importance of community collaboration in tackling GBV. The collective effort of local leaders, religious authorities, government officials, and civil society groups is essential for creating a comprehensive and sustainable approach to eradicating gender-based violence. By working together, these groups can challenge the harmful norms, beliefs, and practices that perpetuate GBV in communities. 

Religious leaders such as pastors and imams, who were also present on the panel, highlighted the role of faith-based communities in shaping cultural attitudes towards violence and gender equality. Their involvement in the fight against GBV brings an added layer of support, as many community members look to religious institutions for guidance and leadership. By integrating faith-based organizations into the broader anti-GBV efforts, the initiative gains a significant amount of influence in shifting societal norms

The panel also featured insights from the president of FIDA NWR, who spoke about the critical role that legal advocacy and women’s rights organizations play in the fight against GBV. By providing legal support and advocating for policy change, organizations like FIDA ensure that survivors of violence receive the protection and justice they deserve. Furthermore, these organizations help raise awareness about the legal rights of individuals and the importance of gender equality, helping to reduce the stigma that often prevents survivors from coming forward. 

The presence of local government representatives at the event was also a key element in ensuring that GBV interventions are not only community-driven but also supported at the policy level. Local councils play a significant role in implementing and overseeing anti-GBV policies and programs, making them crucial partners in creating a safer and more equitable environment for everyone. 

As we reflect on the success of the 16 Days of Activism, it’s clear that this campaign was not just about raising awareness for a specific period, but about creating a lasting movement that continues well beyond these 16 days. The event was a reminder that the fight against GBV is not over—it is ongoing, and we must keep the momentum going. 

We must continue to raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and provide unwavering support for survivors. Every voice counts in this fight, and it is through collective action that we will build a safer and more equitable future for all. Each community, each individual, has a part to play in ending gender-based violence, and the time to act is now. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partner, MenEngage Alliance Cameroon, for their unwavering support throughout the 16 Days of Activism campaign and beyond. Their dedication to addressing GBV and promoting gender equality has been instrumental in helping us achieve meaningful progress. As we continue our work, we remain deeply committed to this important cause, knowing that together, we can make a lasting difference. 

The panel discussion was a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of the community. It showed that the fight against GBV is not one that can be won by any single group alone. Instead, it requires the collective effort of communities, leaders, and organizations who are committed to creating a world free of violence and discrimination. 

As we move forward, let’s continue to empower each other, share our knowledge and resources, and work together to make the dream of a violence-free world a reality. Together, we can raise our voices, challenge unjust practices, and stand in solidarity with survivors of GBV, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Let’s create a world where everyone can live freely, safely, and with dignity.