The Shawiri project recently organized a workshop to disseminate communication tools and an operational guide to raise awareness about gender-based violence in Comoros. The event took place at the Hotel des Iles in Mutsamudu, and was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Gender Promotion, the National Commission for Human Rights and Freedoms (Cndhl), and women's associations. The guide, developed by EarthEcho Communications, covers the legal framework, victim support, and the role of third parties.
The guide was presented by Mohamed Ismael, Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Gender Promotion and Information, as a tool to strengthen awareness against gender-based violence. He emphasized that the violence is not just statistics, but broken lives, fragile families, and a major obstacle to the country's development. Ismael stressed that silence and inaction are the greatest enemies in combating this scourge.
According to Ismael, the operational guide is not just another document to be shelved, but a strategic tool and compass for the field. It aims to harmonize messages, adapt speeches to the cultural and social realities of the islands, and ensure that every citizen understands that violence has no place in Comoros. He also highlighted the importance of communication in involving different actors in prevention.
Ismael emphasized that communication is the first line of defense against unacceptable behavior, and that it is essential to listen to victims, educate, and mobilize opinion leaders, religious leaders, village chiefs, and youth and women's associations. The guide provides the keys to sharing a single voice, acting with relevance, and guaranteeing the visibility of actions.
Me Youssouf Aticki, Commissioner at the National Commission for Human Rights and Freedoms (Cndhl), highlighted the importance of enabling communities to better understand the fight against gender-based violence. He emphasized that human rights are not decreed, but must be taught and transmitted. Aticki also stressed the need for exchanges between actors mobilized to combat violence.
Aticki noted that the project aims to create bridges between actors in terms of work tools and methods, allowing them to exchange and bear concrete fruits. He also emphasized that a woman with access to these tools has her dignity respected and is less likely to be a victim. A community that protects its population protects the country's future.
Sittina Echat Salim, Regional Director of Gender Promotion, highlighted the importance of exchanges between different actors, which enable them to have a unified message and share experiences. She noted that these exchanges are essential for victims who feel supported and for the effectiveness of actions.
Key points
- The Shawiri project launches an operational guide to combat gender-based violence in Comoros.
- The guide aims to strengthen awareness and provide tools for prevention and support.
- The project emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration between actors to combat violence.
