The Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organisation (ADDRO) has extended its mission to prevent gender-based violence by donating sanitary pads, books, and pens to students of St. Peter's Anglican Junior High School in the Gozesi community.
This initiative, supported by the Episcopal Relief Development in the United States of America (USA), aims to contribute to the fight against gender-based violence. ADDRO also conducted a sensitization program on gender-based violence, providing sanitary pads to community members, including men, women, and young girls.
Madam Rebecca Lariba Seidu, Gender Officer at ADDRO, addressed students and community members, emphasizing the collective effort needed to combat gender-based violence. She highlighted the prevalence of violence against women and girls and stressed the importance of supporting survivors.
The donation aligns with ADDRO's commitment to promoting gender equality and social inclusion interventions. It comes within the framework of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, commemorated annually from November 25 to December 10, Human Rights Day.
Madam Lariba underscored the need to break down barriers to girls' education, acknowledging their vulnerability to gender-based violence. She emphasized the importance of believing in and supporting survivors, addressing a significant barrier to ending gender-based violence.
Mr. Anthony Ayadago, a teacher at St. Peter's Anglican JHS, expressed gratitude on behalf of the head teacher, noting the positive impact the materials would have on students' academic activities.
Mr. Sulamana Afuugu Bukari, the Assembly member of the Gozesi Electoral Area, commended ADDRO for addressing gender-based violence as a human rights issue. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in eliminating this phenomenon.
Kassim Akurugu, a participant and beneficiary, acknowledged the enlightening effect of sensitization, expressing commitment to prevent gender-based violence in his community. “I will be giving these sanitary pads I received to my wife, and by this gesture of ADDRO, it tells me how much of a problem women have and the support they need from us,” he added.