Dear Volunteers,

I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits. As dedicated participants in the GEAM Afrika volunteering program, you are at the forefront of a crucial and transformative initiative addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Africa, with a specific focus on Nigeria. Your commitment and efforts are not only commendable but also vital in tackling one of the most pressing issues affecting our communities.

The Importance of Addressing Gender-Based Violence
1. Human Rights and Dignity
Gender-Based Violence is a severe violation of human rights. It undermines the dignity, security, and autonomy of individuals, predominantly women and girls, who are the most vulnerable. By addressing GBV, we are upholding the fundamental human rights that every person deserves, irrespective of their gender.
2. Health and Well-being
GBV has profound and long-lasting impacts on the physical, mental, and emotional health of survivors. It can lead to injuries, chronic health problems, depression, anxiety, and even death. By preventing GBV and supporting survivors, we are contributing to the overall health and well-being of individuals and communities.
3. Social and Economic Development
The prevalence of GBV impedes social and economic progress. Survivors often face stigma and discrimination, hindering their educational and employment opportunities. By addressing GBV, we are fostering a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to development.
4. Breaking the Cycle of Violence
GBV often perpetuates a cycle of violence that affects multiple generations. Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to become perpetrators or victims in the future. By intervening now, we can break this cycle and create a safer environment for future generations.

Nigeria, with its diverse cultural and social landscapes, faces significant challenges in addressing GBV. The persistence of harmful traditional practices, lack of awareness, inadequate legal frameworks, and insufficient support services contribute to the complexity of the issue. However, this also presents an opportunity for meaningful impact.

Your Role as Volunteers
Your role as volunteers is pivotal. Through your efforts in raising awareness, educating communities, supporting survivors, and advocating for policy changes, you are driving positive change. Here are some ways you are making a difference:
• Raising Awareness: By educating communities about the causes and consequences of GBV, you are helping to shift attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate violence.
• Supporting Survivors: Providing emotional, legal, and financial support to survivors is crucial in their journey towards healing and empowerment.
• Advocacy: Your voices are powerful in advocating for stronger laws and policies that protect the rights of individuals and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Collaboration: Working with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders enhances the effectiveness of our efforts and ensures sustainable change.

The work you are doing is not easy, but it is profoundly important. Each step you take, each person you educate, each survivor you support, and each policy you advocate for contributes to a larger movement towards a safer and more just society. Your dedication and compassion are the driving forces behind this change.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to addressing Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from violence and fear.

With gratitude and solidarity,
Nkechi Enebeli
Head of Programs
GEAM Afrika Volunteering Program