In a decisive move to eradicate sexual violence and harmful traditional practices in Akwa Ibom communities, the Centre for Young People Development and Poverty Alleviation Initiative (CYDPAN), with support from African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), has launched a transformative campaign for change. Through community mobilization and advocacy, CYDPAN is empowering leaders to take an active stand against societal injustices and protect the rights of vulnerable women and girls across the state.
At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to community collaboration. The mobilization effort brought together stakeholders from five LGAs: Okobo, Mbo, Udung Uko, Urue/Offong Oruko, and Oron where over two hundred community stakeholders —including paramount rulers, clan heads, village heads, women leaders, youth representatives and teachers selected across 24 secondary schools gathered at the Godswill Akpabio Multi-Purpose Hall in Oron Local Government Area Secretariat to discuss actionable strategies.
Renowned legal expert Emem Ette, Esq., Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Gender-Based Violence Management Committee, in her compelling lecture highlighted the impact of shared responsibility in addressing sexual violence. She emphasized that preventing and responding to sexual violence is not a task for one individual or group but requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including communities and duty-bearers. Ette identified key areas of focus, such as ending harmful practices like female genital mutilation, holding perpetrators accountable, supporting survivors, and empowering communities to embrace modern, rights-based solutions. With heartfelt conviction, she stated, “A society that protects the rights of its citizens is on the path to fulfilling global best practices and shaping a secure future for all.” Her message resonated deeply, centering on the importance of breaking down harmful traditions, building a culture of respect and safety, and fostering collaboration. Ette underscored the urgency of sustained community engagement to bring about meaningful and lasting change.
Robert Boniface, CYDPAN’s Program Manager, emphasized the importance of open and inclusive dialogue in transforming societal values and breaking down the barriers that sustain gender inequality. “Our mission goes beyond addressing sexual violence,” he explained. “We strive to remove obstacles to education, confront economic hardships, and put an end to practices that undermine human dignity. Through empowerment, we envision a world where every individual can live in equality and safety.”
As CYDPAN intensifies its efforts under the KASA Project, the call to action has never been more urgent. Community members, policymakers, and advocates are encouraged to take a stand: Speak Up by challenging harmful practices, Support Survivors by creating safe spaces where they feel heard and valued, and Join Forces with CYDPAN and partner organizations to drive meaningful change.
This movement is far more than just a campaign—it is a lifeline for countless women and girls who have suffered in silence from sexual violence and discrimination. By empowering them to understand their rights and reclaim their self-worth, CYDPAN is helping to restore confidence, dignity, and hope across Akwa Ibom State.
The KASA project, with support from AWDF, has been recognized for its immense potential to transform perspectives on the rights of women and girls. It aims to deepen understanding, address the grave realities of sexual abuse and exploitation, and champion the preservation of their dignity and humanity.
With collective effort, we can build a safer Akwa Ibom—a place where everyone thrives with dignity and equality.
