The United States Agency for International Development has urged victims of gender-based violence to seek help early and not die in silence.
Mission Director, USAID Nigeria, Melissa Jones, said seeking help early was crucial because such violence thrives on silence, domination and isolation.
Jones gave the advice on Wednesday at a webinar organised by the mission to commemorate the yearly 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the global campaign was launched on Nov. 25 with the theme, “UNiTE! Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls” and will run till Dec. 10.
Jones said the stigma and discrimination that affected survivors of violence was painful, noting that the solution was for communities and other women to embrace them.
“If you are out there and know women and girls who have experienced violence, help them seek help. They should not suffer alone and in silence.
“Also, serve as a safety net for them and provide that cushion so they don’t have to experience the stigma and discrimination that often follows the violence that was never their fault.”
According to her, USAID has a large humanitarian assistance programme which provides safe spaces and equitable access to relief materials for survivors of violence while supporting women and girls to rebuild their lives.
Jones said USAID was working across multiple sectors to tackle issues of social isolation, gender inequality and equity, and also actively designing co-creating programmes for youths.
“One in six girls experience emotional violence which can be just as damaging as sexual violence.
“We will continue to focus on trying to have gender-specific programming as well as integrate gender in all we do.
“When a girl thrives, the family thrives and when men are allies to the needs of their wives, sisters, daughters, mothers, and friends, the community is stronger and better for it.
“USAID is a partner with Nigeria on this important issue and we will collectively fight it hand in hand as we see a new future for Nigeria. One without GBV.”
She further said USAID was making a strategic shift to funding local partners, adding that collaboration on developmental issues was important for change.
The Mission Director stressed that USAID was inclusive in its work and recognised that good and strong development was dependent upon community response and the participation of all.
According to her, issues around gender are cross-cutting and USAID works across the spectrum of development.
“We want to ensure that both women and men, girls and boys have the same access to healthcare, education and all aspects of life.
“When you improve access for one group, you actually help everyone else,” Jones said.
SOURCE: PUNCH