The Economic and Social Empowerment of Rural Communities (ESERC) continued its grassroots campaign to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) with a Community Forum and Sensitization Programme held in Onyoho Community on Saturday, July 12, 2025.
The forum forms part of the implementation of ESERC’s project, “Breaking the Cycle of Gender-Based Violence: Survivor-Centered Services and Community Engagement in Enugu State,” with support from the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC 2025).
The sensitization programme brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, women and youth groups, religious leaders, local government representatives, and other community stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for preventing gender-based violence and strengthening community-based protection systems.
Participants were educated on the various forms of gender-based violence, the rights of survivors, available reporting channels, and the importance of early intervention and timely access to support services. The forum also emphasized the need to challenge harmful cultural and social norms that contribute to violence against women and girls while promoting respect, equality, and human dignity.
Facilitators encouraged community members to become active advocates for positive social change by speaking out against violence, supporting survivors without stigma, and working collectively to create safer homes and communities. The discussions highlighted the critical role that families, traditional institutions, religious organizations, youth groups, and local leaders play in preventing violence and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The forum further strengthened collaboration between ESERC, community structures, and relevant stakeholders, reinforcing the project’s commitment to building sustainable community ownership of gender-based violence prevention initiatives. Through dialogue and community participation, residents identified practical actions that can be taken locally to improve prevention, reporting, and referral mechanisms.
ESERC reaffirmed its commitment to empowering communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to address gender-based violence effectively. The organization believes that lasting change can only be achieved when communities are fully engaged in protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.
With the continued support of the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organizations (FEF-OSC), ESERC remains dedicated to expanding community outreach across Enugu State, strengthening survivor-centred services, and fostering a culture where every woman and girl can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.
Together, we can break the cycle of gender-based violence and build safer, more inclusive communities for present and future generations.
