… group says traditional, religious leaders must join fight against GBV
By Hafsat Usman Ukissa, Kaduna
African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) Kaduna State chapter in collaboration with the Network of Women with Disabilities and CANET, has held a community awareness walk in Barnawa, Kaduna State, to sensitise residents on Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The walk, which held on Friday, September 25, 2026, was aimed at preventing GBV and encouraging victims and witnesses to speak up and seek help.
Speaking after the walk, Lead of the organisation, Mrs. Rifkatu Yakubu Bawa, said the initiative was to draw attention to the prevalence of GBV and to inform residents about available support for victims.
She said many victims remain silent because of fear of rejection and abandonment if they speak out.
According to her, GBV can affect women, men and children and can occur in different settings including schools, religious schools, markets, homes and within marriages.
“We came out today to let people know that gender-based violence happens and that there are consequences under the law for perpetrators,” Bago said.
She urged victims not to remain silent, but to seek medical attention and report cases to appropriate authorities.
Bago called on communities, traditional rulers, religious leaders and the media to play active roles in preventing and responding to GBV cases.
She said the organisation has been engaging media organisations, traditional institutions and religious leaders to ensure that cases are properly handled and victims receive appropriate support.
She advised that victims of sexual or physical violence should be taken to hospital for proper medical examination and care, noting that medical documentation is also important when seeking justice.
According to her, victims can access support through designated centres in Kaduna State including Yusuf Dantsoho Hospital, Gwamna Awan Hospital, Zaria and Kafanchan, while a hotline is also available for people seeking assistance.
She emphasized that combating GBV should not be left to organisations alone.
“This fight involves everyone, not only the victims. If you see something, say something. Do not keep quiet,” she said.
Bago also called on other organisations with capacity to support GBV prevention and response to join the campaign and strengthen efforts to protect victims and promote safer communities.
