To mark this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based campaign , the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption programme and support from the European Unicom, implemented by the International IDEA, will engage 16 traditional rulers to amplify the message against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). tecognising their influential roles in shaping societal norms, these leaders will champion behavioural change and urge their communities to reject violence in all its forms.
The initiative aims to empower community members while providing resources and support for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Activities planned include town hall meetings featuring key speakers addressing SGBV and its various forms, as well as two awareness walks in Epe and Elegushi.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence serves as a global call to action to renew commitments, demand accountability, and drive meaningful change. For countless women, the cycle of violence has tragically ended in femicide, with their partners or family members as the perpetrators.
The 2024 theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls”, reflects a global commitment to progress and aligns with the campaign’s timeline from November 25 to December 10.
The initiative calls on governments, civil societies, and the private sector to strengthen efforts to prevent all forms of violence against women and girls, emphasising that such violence is preventable.
By leveraging the authority and influence of the traditional rulers, Lagos DSVA seeks to inspire widespread rejection of GBV while fostering safe and supportive communities.