Grassroots empowerment key to ending GBV — Hardo
By Ahmed Ahmed
The Executive Director of Aid Connect for Development, Ms. Abigail Hardo, has expressed deep concern over the rising prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) in Bauchi State.
She stressed the urgent need for sustained awareness creation and capacity building for women and the girl-child, particularly at the grassroots level.
Ms. Hardo made the call on Monday in Bauchi during a High-Level Advocacy and Partnership Forum themed “Institutionalizing STEAM for GBV Prevention, Disability Inclusion and Women’s Economic Empowerment.
”She noted that gender-based violence remains a major challenge confronting women and girls, manifesting in various forms such as domestic abuse, battery, rape and other harmful practices.
According to her, deliberate efforts must be made to ensure that every girl-child is protected from all forms of violence and exploitation.
“I have a strong passion for projects addressing GBV, with special interest in ensuring that every girl-child, in one way or another, escapes all forms of violence,” she said.
Ms. Hardo emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls in rural and underserved communities through education and skills development.
She explained that many victims are constrained by long-held norms, customs and traditions, which often prevent them from speaking out or seeking justice.
She called for intensified education on the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, adding that understanding the distinction between harmful traditional practices and acceptable social norms would help women and girls assert their rights and access legal protection.
The Aid Connect for Development boss also advocated for the effective implementation of policies that promote digital learning and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education.
She described STEAM as a critical tool for reducing GBV, promoting disability inclusion and enhancing women’s economic empowerment across communities in the state.
Ms. Hardo commended the organisers of the forum, the Girl Child Values Support Initiative (GCVSI), for the initiative.
She acknowledged the support of the French Embassy Fund (FEF) and CSOs Progress Partners in advancing gender equality and social inclusion efforts in Bauchi State.
