Overview
During the reporting period, WoDYEO made significant strides in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Sierra Leone. Sensitization and awareness sessions were conducted in two large slum communities, Moa Warf and Susan’s Bay. The outreach included the dissemination of information from relevant Acts, such as the PWD Act 2011 and Sexual Offences Act 2012, coupled with psycho-social support and GBV referral pathways. A campaign jiggle was produced and aired on SLBC Radio Station for three months, complemented by printed posters with key messages on GBV. An interface meeting convened various stakeholders, fostering collaboration on inclusive responses to GBV.
Production and Airing of Jiggle:
A compelling campaign jiggle was successfully produced and aired on SLBC Radio Station for three months. The content was also shared on social media platforms, ensuring a broad reach and impact.
Illustration and Printing of Key GBV Messages:
15 key messages on GBV, accompanied by illustrations, were developed and printed. The dissemination through social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp and Facebook, effectively reached the target audience, including those with limited literacy.
GBV Sensitization and Awareness Raising:
Thorough sensitization sessions were conducted in Moa Warf and Susan’s Bay, addressing prevalent issues such as early marriage and sexual offenses. The outreach team engaged with survivors, collected key information for follow-up, and distributed printed materials for community reference.
Interface Meeting:
A well-attended interface meeting brought together service providers, law enforcement bodies, civil society organizations, disabled persons organizations, and persons with disabilities. Discussions centered on interventions for GBV, with women with disabilities highlighting challenges faced in accessing services.
All activities were implemented on time during the first quarter, adhering to the work plan and budget. Experiences from this quarter will inform future initiatives, ensuring continued success and timely execution.
Key Challenges and Recommendations:
Accessibility: Some targeted communities, especially Susan’s Bay and Moa Warf, are not disabled-friendly, hindering outreach team members with disabilities. Recommendations include advocating for improved accessibility.
Sign Language Interpreter: The absence of sign language interpreters during sensitization affected the hearing impaired, emphasizing the need to allocate budgetary provisions for interpreters in future activities.
Community Cooperation: Engaging community members during business hours proved challenging, suggesting the need for tailored strategies to capture their attention effectively.
Planned Activities for the Coming Quarter:
Continuous Sensitization: Ongoing awareness-raising efforts on various acts, GBV issues, and referral pathways in targeted communities.
Interface Meetings: Facilitating discussions between service providers and women with disabilities to enhance access to GBV information and services.
Need for Specific Support:
Strong cooperation from Rainbo’s vocal point volunteers in the communities is sought to ensure the success of upcoming activities.
Key Success Story:
Due to WoDYEO’s advocacy and sensitization efforts, GBV complaints are now reaching their office. An ongoing sexual penetration case reported in February 2021, which was stagnant, gained momentum following WoDYEO’s intervention. The Family Support Unit is now actively pursuing the case, highlighting the project’s impact.