In a recent initiative, Israel Orji, Executive Director of Solace Hub for Health and Rights Initiative, led a charge against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Anambra state. This rallying cry synced with the Global 16 Days of Activism against GBV, supported by the Women and Harm Reduction International Network (WHRIN).
The campaign, spanning from November 25th to December 10th, aimed to end violence against women and girls, emphasizing national actions for awareness, advocacy, and support for women who use drugs.
To cap off the 2023 16 days of activism and the 2023 Campaign to End Violence Against Women who Use Drugs (EVAWUD2023),Solace Hub organized a health outreach tailored for women who use drugs in Anambra state.
On December 10th, 2023, Solace Hub targeted a bunk in Awka known for a high number of women who use drugs. The session included behavioral change education, discussions on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, mental health, hygiene, STIs, and GBV.
Program Officer Atogu Franklin addressed rising GBV cases, urging victims to report through the organization. He shared the state GHR response team toll-free line and emphasized breaking the culture of silence. Sanitary pads, hand wash, and condoms were distributed for hygiene and STI prevention.
Monitoring and Evaluation Officer Okeke Onyekachi underscored the persistently high number of unreported GBV cases, calling for support from families, communities, and the government to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with drug use.
Solace Hub’s 16 days of Activism also featured a Social Media Awareness Campaign, addressing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, GBV, and women’s rights. Collaborations with women-led groups focused on advocacy to the Anambra state government and establishing Gender-Based Violence response teams in communities.
About Solace Hub
Solace Hub for Health and Rights Initiative is dedicated to championing health, human rights, and education for underserved communities across Nigeria. Join us in creating brighter tomorrows!
For further information, contact: solacehubnigeria@gmail.com
Israel Orji
Executive Director, Solace Hub.
