PROJECT SAGE-GBV OUTREACH AT THE MEDICAL WOMEN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (MWAN)

Teenagers Care for Sustainable Development Initiative, in partnership with the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, successfully implemented an advocacy session under Project SAGE-GBV (Strengthening Advocacy for Girls and Women Empowerment Against Gender-Based Violence) with members of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN).

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through awareness, prevention, and survivor-cantered response systems.

Purpose of the Engagement

Recognizing the critical role healthcare professionals play in identifying and supporting survivors, the session focused on enhancing medical practitioners’ understanding of GBV and strengthening coordinated response mechanisms within communities.

Key Discussion Areas

Participants explored:

• The definition and realities of Gender-Based Violence beyond physical harm

• Various forms of GBV, including emotional, sexual, economic, and psychological abuse

• Harmful myths and societal misconceptions surrounding GBV

• Early warning signs often observed in survivors within healthcare settings

• Appropriate early response strategies emphasizing empathy, confidentiality, and non-judgmental support

The interactive session also emphasized survivor-cantered care, encouraging professionals to listen actively, reassure survivors, and facilitate appropriate referrals to medical, legal, and psychosocial support services.

Strengthening Partnerships

The outreach highlighted the importance of collaboration between civil society organizations and medical professionals in preventing violence and supporting recovery for survivors.

Key Message

The session reinforced that:

GBV is not only physical violence, and seeking help is an act of courage. Healing and restoration are possible with the right support systems.

Moving Forward

Teenagers Care for Sustainable Development Initiative remains committed to working with professional bodies, schools, and community stakeholders to strengthen advocacy and promote safe environments for girls, women, and vulnerable populations.