The Economic and Social Empowerment of Rural Communities (ESERC), with support from the European Union–United Nations (EU-UN) Spotlight Initiative, successfully organized a two-day Interface Meeting and Capacity-Building Workshop for key stakeholders working to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV) in Ebonyi State.
Held from 31 January to 1 February 2022, with this report published on February 22, 2022, the workshop brought together trained law enforcement officers, members of the Ebonyi State Gender-Based Violence Task Force, health service providers, officials from the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs, and Community Advocacy Groups (CAGs). The meeting provided a platform for strengthening collaboration and improving the coordination of GBV prevention and response efforts across the state.
The primary objective of the workshop was to enhance the capacity of frontline responders and service providers by equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to coordinate comprehensive, survivor-centred responses to cases of gender-based violence. Participants engaged in interactive sessions on case management, survivor protection, referral mechanisms, legal processes, psychosocial support, and institutional collaboration.
A major focus of the meeting was the strengthening of communication and referral pathways among stakeholders. Through collaborative discussions and experience sharing, participants identified existing gaps in service delivery and developed practical strategies for improving coordination between law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, government institutions, civil society organizations, and community-based structures.
The workshop also reinforced the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing violence against women and girls. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to working collectively to ensure survivors receive timely, confidential, and quality support services while promoting accountability for perpetrators through effective law enforcement and justice systems.
As an implementing partner of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in Ebonyi State, ESERC continues to champion initiatives that strengthen institutional capacity, improve service delivery, and foster sustainable partnerships for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls.
The successful interface meeting marked another significant milestone in strengthening Ebonyi State’s gender-based violence response system. By promoting collaboration, enhancing professional capacity, and improving referral pathways, ESERC remains committed to building a coordinated and survivor-centred response that protects the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and girls throughout the state.
Through strategic partnerships and continuous engagement with government institutions, development partners, and community stakeholders, ESERC continues to contribute to the broader vision of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative—creating safer communities where every woman and girl can live free from violence, discrimination, and harmful practices.
