The Power of Collective Action: EngenderHealth’s 2024 Efforts to End GBV During the 16 Days of Activism 

By Nama Taha, Humanitarian Assistant Fellow 

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a critical opportunity to raise awareness, mobilize communities, and advocate for systemic change. EngenderHealth’s offices across the world spent the16 Days amplifying efforts to prevent GBV, promote gender equality, and support survivors.  

Here’s a roundup of the impactful activities led by EngenderHealth’s teams in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, India, and Tanzania. 

Burkina Faso

In Burkina Faso, EngenderHealth led a community-based awareness campaign targeting violence against women. Women from various associations in the Cocody neighborhoods came together to learn about the different forms of violence, their impact, and ways to prevent and respond to it. The campaign emphasized strengthening community engagement as a key factor in the fight for a more equitable and violence-free society. Additionally, EngenderHealth partnered with organizations in the fight against HIV/AIDS, airing radio broadcasts to raise awareness about the intersection of HIV and GBV. 

Côte d’Ivoire

EngenderHealth hosted a series of successful events, including a regional webinar, a march against femicide, and a forum with feminist associations in Côte d’Ivoire. These activities engaged activists, youth-led organizations, and local institutions to improve advocacy for better law accountability, stronger guidelines on GBV and SRHR, and greater involvement of women and youth in driving change.

Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, EngenderHealth partnered with government bodies, NGOs, and the private sector to advance the prevention of GBV and the promotion of SRHR. Highlights included a significant MoU signed with the Ethiopian Women Development Organization (EWDO) to foster community engagement and policy advocacy. EngenderHealth also trained journalists to improve reporting on SRHR and GBV, hosted a high-level panel on GBV survivor support, and pushed for systemic changes in the justice system, including a national GBV law. 

India

In India, EngenderHealth trained healthcare providers in Karnataka to screen antenatal care patients for GBV using a new tool. Dr. Archana, a gynecologist, shared how she uncovered a case of mental abuse through this screening, helping a pregnant woman access the necessary support. To date, the program has screened over 2,000 women, identifying 77 cases of GBV and connecting them to vital resources. Additionally, the India team collaborated with Magic Spangle Studios to create an animated video that educates audiences about GBV, its types, and its impact. The animation serves as an engaging and accessible tool to raise awareness and foster understanding of gender-based violence across diverse communities.

Tanzania

In Tanzania, the 16 Days of Activism coincided with the International Day for People with Disabilities, where EngenderHealth showcased its Scaling Up Family Planning (SuFP) program. This event highlighted the importance of empowering people with disabilities (PWDs) with knowledge on SRHR and gender equality. The British High Commissioner observed the program’s impact, meeting with beneficiaries and discussing the challenges in accessing SRH services. 

Across these countries and more, EngenderHealth’s efforts during the 16 Days of Activism reflect a global commitment to ending GBV, supporting survivors, and creating a more just and equitable world. Together, we can make strides toward a future where gender equality and violence-free communities are a reality. 

Published: December 12, 2024