Clement Isong Foundation Flags Off Activities for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, November 25th, 2024.
As part of global efforts to combat violence against women and girls, Clement Isong Foundation (CIF) in partnership with the Akwa Ibom State Coalition against Social and Gender-Based Violence officially launched the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at Ibom Hall, Uyo Akwa Ibom state, on November 25, 2024. This year’s campaign, themed “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” will include a series of impactful activities designed to raise awareness, engage stakeholders, and drive action to eliminate GBV in Akwa Ibom State.
Through the Strategic Partnership Agreement II (SPA II) project, funded by ActionAid Nigeria, CIF has been at the forefront of empowering young women and addressing systemic issues perpetuating inequality and violence. Since its inception in Akwa Ibom State in 2022, the SPAII project has strengthened the capacities of young people especially young women with the aim of building just, green, and resilient communities for improved livelihood. The 16 Days of Activism serves as an opportunity to expand on these efforts, delivering activities that positively impact the lives of young women across the state.
Gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue with devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. It violates the fundamental rights of women and girls, limits opportunities, and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. Survivors often endure long-term physical, psychological, and emotional trauma, facing stigma and a culture of silence that allows perpetrators to act with impunity.
Dr. Caroline Gordian, Project Manager at Clement Isong Foundation, emphasized the profound societal impact of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) during the official Flag Off of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.” She stated, “Gender-based violence is not just a violation of human rights; it is an assault on the very fabric of our society. It disrupts the potential of women and girls to thrive and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities. Ending GBV is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for building a just and equitable society.”
Dr. Caroline Gordian further underscored the critical need for collective action in addressing Gender-Based Violence, stating “We all have a role to play as parents, teachers, leaders, and peers to challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. Let us unite to create safe spaces where women and girls can live free from fear and violence.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Elkanah Oluyori, Executive Director of Clement Isong Foundation, called for collaborative efforts. In his statement, “As we embark on this critical campaign, we urge everyone to recognize that ending GBV is a collective responsibility. We must work together to create a society where women and girls can live without fear of violence or discrimination. Let us unite to make Akwa Ibom State a beacon of hope and safety for all.”
In the coming days, Clement Isong Foundation will host a variety of events to further the campaign’s objectives:
Social Media Campaigns, Town Hall Meetings Radio Programs among others. These initiatives aim to foster a culture of zero tolerance for violence, empower citizens to become change agents and create a society where women and girls can live without fear.
Clement Isong Foundation calls on government agencies, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and the private sector to join hands in this fight. Together, we can ensure that the rights and dignity of every woman and girl in Akwa Ibom State are protected and upheld. Together, we can end violence against women and girls. The time to act is now.