The Economic and Social Empowerment of Rural Communities (ESERC), with support from the European Union–United Nations (EU-UN) Spotlight Initiative, successfully conducted a three-day capacity-building training for Women and Girls’ Rights Advocates in Ebonyi State. The training, held on December 28, 2020, formed part of the Spotlight Initiative’s commitment to strengthening local capacity to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.
The training focused on the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act), equipping participants with a comprehensive understanding of the law, its provisions, and its role in protecting women, girls, and other vulnerable persons from all forms of violence and harmful practices.
Throughout the three-day programme, participants explored key aspects of the VAPP Act, including the rights of survivors, available legal protections, reporting and referral mechanisms, survivor-centred approaches, and the responsibilities of advocates in promoting justice and accountability. Interactive sessions, practical case studies, and group discussions enabled participants to strengthen their knowledge and develop practical advocacy skills for community engagement.
The training also emphasized the critical role of women and girls’ rights advocates in raising awareness, supporting survivors, promoting access to justice, and working alongside government institutions, law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations to address gender-based violence effectively.
As an implementing partner of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative in Ebonyi State, ESERC remains committed to building the capacity of grassroots actors who serve as catalysts for social change. By empowering advocates with the knowledge and tools to promote the implementation of the VAPP Act, the organization is helping to strengthen community-based responses to gender-based violence and create safer environments for women and girls.
The programme reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between development partners, government institutions, and community stakeholders in advancing the rights of women and girls. Participants concluded the training with renewed commitment to championing the implementation of the VAPP Act and advocating for communities where every woman and girl can live free from violence, discrimination, and harmful practices.
Through sustained advocacy, education, and strategic partnerships, ESERC continues to contribute to the broader vision of the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative—eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls while promoting equality, justice, and human dignity.
