Latest news with #Gender-BasedViolence
Zawya
5 days ago
- General
- Zawya
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) concludes El Nino Emergency Drought Relief Response through the global humanitarian fund in Namibia
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in collaboration with partner organisations, has successfully wrapped up a critical a nine-month emergency response in support of the Government of Namibia's Emergency Drought Response Plan to the El Niño-induced drought. With a contribution of US$3 million from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (UN-CERF), WFP supported the government in delivering life-saving food and nutrition assistance to over 63,000 vulnerable people across Kavango East, Kavango West, and Omaheke regions between October 2024 and June 2025. In addition to food assistance, the project served as a platform for integrated service delivery. At food distribution sites, UNICEF provided outreach and basic health screenings for more than 83,500 people and facilitated referrals for malnourished children. UNFPA reached more than 22,400 people with Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) services through daily mobile outreach in schools and communities. A community feedback mechanism system was also established, enabling affected populations to share their needs, concerns and suggestions to help shape and improve the response. 'This emergency response was about more than just delivering food, it was about restoring dignity and hope to communities hit hardest by the drought,' said Naouar Labidi, WFP Country Representative in Namibia. 'Thanks to the generous support from UN-CERF and our collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister and UN partners, namely the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), we reached tens of thousands of people with vital humanitarian assistance. But we also used this moment to invest in local capacity, strengthen partnerships, and helping communities build the resilience they need to face climate shocks.' The contribution from CERF allowed over 41,000 people (nearly 7000 households) to receive three rounds of food vouchers, enabling them to purchase essential items such as maize meal, canned fish and cooking oil from 25 participating retailers. This not only supported immediate needs, but also helped boost the local economy, laying the groundwork for longer-term resilience by supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening local supply chains. At the same time, 22,000 children received hot and nutritious meals from 155 conveniently located soup kitchens. WFP remains committed to working closely with the Government of Namibia, UN agencies and partners to strengthen food systems, build community resilience and enhance emergency preparedness to future climate shocks. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).
eNCA
19-07-2025
- eNCA
1 in 5 women journalists attacked
CAPE TOWN - Research has shown that one in five female journalists reported being abused and attacked both in real life and online. This term is referred to as Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence, or TFGBV. The online violence women experience often intersects with racism and transphobia.
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
5 projects that are happening this Mandela Day
From healthcare and housing to transport and social relief, this year's Mandela Day honours Madiba's legacy not just with words As the country marks Mandela Day on 18 July 2025, government departments, organisations and civic bodies have lined up impactful community-centred initiatives in tribute to former president Nelson Mandela's vision of dignity, justice and service. From healthcare interventions to gender justice campaigns, here are just five of countless inspiring activities taking place this year. 1. Santaco cleans ranks and tackles GBV in Ekurhuleni The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) will mark Mandela Day with a dual-focus initiative at Esquereni Taxi Rank in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni. The programme includes a rank cleaning activity and a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness Drive in partnership with the Commission for Gender Equality. 'Former President Mandela taught us that true freedom is lived when we serve others with dignity,' said Santaco President Motlhabane Abnar Tsebe. 'This campaign reflects our commitment to clean, safe ranks and a taxi industry where no commuter is offended, harassed or harmed.' The event, which runs from 9am to 1pm, also aligns with Santaco's broader #SantacoCares and Hlokomela Road Safety and Customer Service campaigns. ALSO READ: Smile Foundation's 25 years of changing lives 2. Gauteng health launches surgical marathons In a life-saving tribute to Mandela, Gauteng Health has launched surgical marathons at hospitals across the province to reduce surgical backlogs and restore dignity to patients in need. According to the provincial department, these marathons are underway at facilities like Helen Joseph Hospital Breast Clinic, Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and Dr. SK Matseke Hospital 'This initiative draws from the best global practices and ensure equitable access to surgical care and institutionalise time-based clinical accountability. 'It will mean that going forward, patients will be given clear timeframes by when their operations will be performed,' the department said. 3. Gauteng legislature leads community outreach The Gauteng Provincial Legislature will lead a Mandela Day activation in Westbury by donating essential goods and offering services to vulnerable households and shelters. Activities include food distribution, health screening, and child protection awareness in disadvantaged areas. The programme will highlight a key infrastructure project: the construction of change-room facilities (abolition blocks) at the Westbury Open Grounds ALSO READ: 'I want people to dance, to feel free': Mörda Bongz ahead of his Mandela Day performance with Soweto Gospel Choir 4. Premier Kagiso Mokgosi on the Ground in North West North West Premier Kagiso Mokgosi will take part in Mandela Day activities in Moretele Local Municipality. It will take place at Mazista village in Swartruggens at 8am The programme involves handing over renovated homes, delivering school uniforms, and launching a community garden. Mokgosi said the activities demonstrate government's commitment to 'meaningful change' at grassroots level. 5. Social Development brings services to the Eastern Cape Minister of Social Development Sisisi Tolashe, joined by the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) and the National Development Agency, will visit Mlungisi Township in the Chris Hani District to bring services directly to residents. Services include social grants registration, community dialogues and food parcels. The event starts at 8am at the Mzingisi Skweyiya Community Hall in Ward 17. From healthcare and housing to transport and social relief, this year's Mandela Day shows that South Africans are honouring Madiba's legacy not just with words, but with deeds that uplift communities. NOW READ: Mandela Day: Secret scarves to be distributed in various parts of the country
Emirates 24/7
25-04-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
UAE Gender Balance Council joins BRICS Women's Affairs Ministerial Meeting in Brazil
The UAE, through the Gender Balance Council, took part in the BRICS Women's Affairs Ministerial Meeting in Brazil, addressing women's economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, digital safety, and climate action. On this occasion, Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of UAE Gender Balance Council, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, praised Brazil's leadership of the BRICS group and reaffirmed the UAE's dedication to global collaboration that uplifts women and ensures sustainable, inclusive growth. Her Highness Sheikha Manal stated that 'economic empowerment is not only a basic right for women; it is a national priority and a driver of sustainable growth and innovation.' Her Highness emphasised that gender balance is central to the UAE's national agenda and that economic empowerment for women is a strategic priority that drives innovation and resilience. The UAE continues leading the region with progressive laws supporting equal pay, parental leave, and women's full economic participation. She highlighted the UAE's commitment to including women in climate action and green innovation, noting their leadership roles in sustainability, solar energy, and agriculture. Furthermore, Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum praised the timely and vital themes addressed at the BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Women's Affairs, noting that they reflect a shared determination among member states to place gender equality at the core of sustainable development and global progress. She noted the importance of international collaboration, adding, 'BRICS offers a valuable platform to share knowledge and create opportunities for women to lead climate action efforts worldwide.' Distinguished Emirati Achievements Her Highness expressed deep pride in the UAE's remarkable milestones in advancing women's economic empowerment—milestones made possible through the unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and the encouragement of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. She reaffirmed that the UAE regards women's empowerment as a fundamental right and a national priority that drives progress across all sectors. Her Highness also reiterated the UAE's strong commitment to shaping a digital future that is empowering, equitable, and protected from gender-based violence. This commitment is reinforced through robust legal and legislative frameworks. In November, the UAE Gender Balance Council advanced these efforts by launching the 'Guidelines for Preventive Policies Against Gender-Based Violence Through Digital Applications', a pioneering step towards safer digital environments for women. Council Participation The United Arab Emirates participated actively in the BRICS Women's Affairs Ministerial Meeting, with the participation of Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council. The meeting commenced with an inspiring address by Brazil's First Lady, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and the presence of distinguished leaders: Her Excellency Esther Duque, Minister of Administration and Innovation in Public Services; Her Excellency Anielle Franco, Minister of Racial Equality; and Her Excellency Aparecida Gonçalves, Minister of Women of Brazil. Together, they championed a powerful agenda of progress through three pivotal discussions: advancing international coordination, empowering women through economic independence and entrepreneurship, harnessing digital governance to combat online violence, and amplifying women's voices in climate action and sustainable development. Entrepreneurship In the "Women, Development, and Entrepreneurship" session, Her Excellency Mona Al Marri underscored the UAE's long-standing support for women in business. 'Emirati women have made a lasting impact on our national economy,' said Her Excellency Mona Al Marri. 'Today, they represent 18% of all entrepreneurs, and over 77% are under 40. These achievements result from decades of progressive policies and leadership support.' She highlighted that Emirati women have significantly impacted the business landscape, with the number of female entrepreneurs rising to 25,000 by 2021, a testament to their growing influence and determination in shaping the future of the UAE. She highlighted initiatives like the SWAN programme launched by Khalifa Fund, which trains Emirati women Entrepreneurs, and the SDG 5 Pledge, which promote leadership opportunities and business growth for women across sectors. She called on BRICS nations to expand mentorship networks and create cross-border platforms for women entrepreneurs. Digital Governance Speaking on 'Digital Governance and Misogyny,' Mona Al Marri stressed the need for inclusive and ethical digital spaces. Women thrive in STEM fields in the UAE, making up 56% of STEM graduates and 80% of the Mars Mission science team. She noted strong UAE legislation against online abuse while highlighting the UAE's pioneering efforts in protecting women online, stating, 'We've enacted strong laws to combat cyber harassment, hate speech, and misinformation. But we must go further and work together internationally to create safer, more inclusive digital spaces.' The UAE works closely with tech platforms to raise global standards and empower women in the digital economy. Climate Action Her Excellency Mona Al Marri emphasised women's growing role in UAE climate leadership in the climate session. At COP28, women held two-thirds of the UAE delegation's leadership roles. Women now make up 30% of the energy workforce. She spotlighted the UAE's international initiatives, like the Climate Change and Gender Equality Initiative with UN Women. She encouraged BRICS countries to share strategies, invest in green skills, and support women-led climate innovation. For her part, Her Excellency Aparecida Gonçalves, highlighted the UAE's exemplary achievements in promoting gender balance and recognised its advanced standing on the global stage in this field. She described the UAE as a pioneering model whose experience offers valuable lessons for the international community. She expressed her strong desire to deepen collaboration with the UAE Gender Balance Council to help advance shared global goals for equality and empowerment. Bilateral Meetings On the sidelines of the BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Women's Affairs, Her Excellency Mona Al Marri met with Her Excellency Aparecida Gonçalves, Brazil's Minister of Women. The meeting focused on exploring avenues for cooperation and exchanging expertise in gender balance.** Her Excellency Mona Al Marri extended her appreciation to Brazil for its warm hospitality and the well-organized hosting of the meeting. She also commended the agenda's comprehensive topics, which reflect Brazil's commitment to enhancing collaboration among BRICS nations in advancing gender balance. For her part, Her Excellency Aparecida Gonçalves praised the UAE's pioneering achievements in gender balance and its globally recognised leadership in this area. She described the UAE as a model to be emulated and expressed a keen interest in strengthening cooperation with the UAE Gender Balance Council to help accelerate international progress in this field. During the visit, His Excellency Saleh Ahmed Al Suwaidi, UAE Ambassador to Brazil, welcomed Her Excellency Mona Al Marri in the presence of Her Excellency Mouza Mohammed Al Ghuwais Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the UAE Gender Balance Council, and Maitha Al Hashimi, Director of Strategic Studies and Legislation. His Excellency Saleh Al Suwaidi commended the Council's active engagement in this prominent international platform and its role in reinforcing the UAE's global standing in competitiveness indicators. Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, in turn, commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its pivotal role in highlighting the country's achievements in gender balance at global forums and thanked the UAE Embassy in Brazil for supporting the Council's participation in this significant event. Her Excellency Mouza emphasised that the BRICS Ministerial Meeting was a crucial platform for exchanging ideas on key areas such as entrepreneurship, digital governance, and climate action. She highlighted that BRICS nations have a unique chance to lead by example, fostering cross-border opportunities and building integrated systems that empower women entrepreneurs. She stressed that actual progress means enabling women to participate in the economy and shape and sustain its future transformation. The UAE's active participation in the BRICS Women's Affairs Ministerial Meeting reflects its unwavering commitment to advancing gender balance globally. Through visionary leadership, progressive policies, and transformative initiatives, the UAE continues to empower women across key sectors from entrepreneurship and climate action to digital innovation and governance. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Zawya
07-03-2025
- Health
- Zawya
A decade of trauma and a journey to healing
Fatima Ibrahim (name changed) was just a child when her world was torn apart. At age 10, she was abducted during a violent raid on her village in Bama, Borno State. What followed was a decade of unimaginable hardship and suffering. Now 20 and a mother of one, Fatima is taking the first steps toward reclaiming her life. A decade of darkness Fatima's years in captivity were marked by fear, violence, and profound isolation, enduring both psychological and physical trauma, leaving her scarred. Her eventual release brought relief but also new struggles. In addition to emotional distress, she suffered from a severe gynaecological condition, manifesting as a foul-smelling discharge and vaginal prolapse—complications that significantly impacted her quality of life. With medical care and psychosocial support provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other humanitarian health partners, Fatima is gradually finding hope and healing. 'I lost hope many times,' Fatima recalled. 'I thought I would never see my family again or feel safe,' she shared with a trembling voice when speaking to the WHO-supported Hard-to-Reach Mobile Health Team at the Malkohi Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Adamawa State, where she had sought refuge. Referral and the road to healing Fatima required immediate, specialised medical attention. Recognising the severity of her condition, the WHO health team promptly referred her case to the WHO Gender-Based Violence (GBV) focal person in Yola, initiating a coordinated response among partners and organisations to secure her treatment and rehabilitation. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) covered the costs of Fatima's medical treatment. At the same time, the Neems Foundation provided critical assistance, including food and transportation, ensuring she could focus on her recovery without additional burdens. She underwent surgery to address her gynaecological complications and received continuous psychosocial support to aid her emotional recovery. With funding from the European Union Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), WHO has played a crucial role in delivering essential medical and psychological support to vulnerable populations affected by humanitarian crises. These collaborative efforts ensure that survivors of conflict and gender-based violence, like Fatima, receive comprehensive and tailored care. By addressing physical and psychological health, WHO and its partners are building pathways for survivors to regain their dignity and access essential health services in challenging environments. A lifeline of support In Adamawa State, WHO—supported by the European Commission (ECHO)—has worked alongside the state government to train and deploy seven teams of hard-to-reach healthcare workers, comprising nurses, community health extension workers, and other essential cadres. These teams operate across 17 local government areas, delivering vital healthcare and psychosocial services to vulnerable communities. Isaac Kadala, a health official in Adamawa State, commended WHO's unwavering commitment to equitable healthcare access, emphasising the organisation's leadership in GBV response and psychosocial training for frontline health workers.'WHO's interventions, including joint supportive supervision across health facilities, have strengthened our capacity to provide much-needed services to affected populations,' he noted, reaffirming the state's commitment to continued collaboration with WHO and its partners. Sustaining humanitarian action 'WHO's interventions, in this case, and many others, align with our Country Cooperation Strategy IV (CCSIV), which prioritises addressing the health needs of vulnerable populations amid humanitarian crises. By providing comprehensive care, we ensure that no one is left behind in accessing essential health services,' said Dr Kumshida Yakubu Balami, WHO's Acting Emergency Manager for Northeast Nigeria's Humanitarian Health Emergency Response. Dr Balami emphasised that Fatima's story serves as a critical reminder of the need for sustained investments in survivor-centred healthcare and psychosocial support for victims of gender-based violence. In 2024 alone, WHO's interventions reached over 161 405 vulnerable individuals in Adamawa State, particularly those residing in IDP camps and remote areas, providing essential medical and psychosocial support. Fatima's journey illustrates the profound impact of humanitarian health interventions on conflict-affected populations. However, her story also underscores an urgent call for continued global and local commitments to supporting survivors of gender-based violence and investing in comprehensive, accessible healthcare services for the most vulnerable. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - Nigeria.
