USAID seeks collective action against gender-based violence in Kebbi

As part of its engagement with stakeholders in combating gender-based violence (GBV), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under its State2State program organized a one-day physical engagement at the Kebbi State College of Nursing, Birnin Kebbi.

Speaking during the event, Mrs. Ejiro Okotie, USAID’s Gender and Social Inclusion expert, explained the rationale for the engagement. She emphasized the importance of evaluating stakeholders’ responses, approaches, and actions against GBV, which affects not only women and girls but also boys.

She stated:“The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence by State2State has been ongoing through all our social media platforms to raise awareness about this menace and call for collective action. We are here in Kebbi State to commemorate this day through physical engagement with stakeholders to understand their responses and actions against GBV. We also need practical solutions, not mere words.”

Mrs. Okotie further highlighted that the fight against GBV must include people with disabilities and marginalized ethnic groups across the state.

In her opening remarks, the Kebbi State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajia Halima Hassan Kamba, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to eradicating GBV. She noted that Kebbi State has taken significant steps to support victims, including the creation of special courts to prosecute perpetrators.

“The fight against gender-based violence is total in Kebbi State. The government has provided support to victims and established special courts to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. We also rehabilitate victims to reduce the stigma associated with GBV. We thank State2State for this physical engagement and for being a reliable partner in this fight. On our part, we will ensure inclusiveness and take prompt action in reported cases of GBV, recognizing that even boys can fall victim to sexual or moral violence,” she said.