The Zamfara State Government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in the state, emphasizing that perpetrators will face the full force of the law. This stance was reaffirmed at a recent National Convention of GBV State Coordinators held in Lagos. The government's efforts to combat GBV include sustained advocacy, public sensitization, and enforcement of relevant laws.
According to the director of Gender in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Asmau Madawaki, the government has implemented key legislations to tackle GBV, including the Zamfara State Child Protection Law, 2022, and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Law. These laws provide a stronger legal framework for protecting survivors, preventing violence, and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.
Madawaki noted that advocacy, public awareness, and attitudinal change are critical to addressing the root causes of GBV. The ministry has continued sensitization campaigns across communities in the state, using various media channels to educate the public on GBV, relevant laws, and the consequences of such offenses. This multi-faceted approach aims to eliminate GBV from communities.
The government's efforts to combat GBV also involve collaboration with stakeholders, including the federal government and development partners. Madawaki called on these stakeholders to sustain their support and collaboration with the state government in strengthening GBV prevention, survivor protection, response, and justice mechanisms.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Aisha Anka, who was represented by Madawaki at the convention, emphasized the government's commitment to eliminating GBV. Anka highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to addressing the issue, involving all stakeholders.
The implementation of the Zamfara State Child Protection Law and the VAPP Law has provided a legal framework for addressing GBV in the state. The laws have also ensured that perpetrators of GBV are held accountable for their actions, while survivors receive the necessary protection and support.
The Zamfara State Government's efforts to combat GBV have been ongoing, with a focus on prevention, protection, and response. The government remains committed to its zero-tolerance stance against GBV, and perpetrators will face the full wrath of the law.
Key points
- The Zamfara State Government has implemented key legislations, including the Zamfara State Child Protection Law, 2022, and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Law.
- The government has continued sensitization campaigns across communities in the state, using various media channels to educate the public on GBV.
- The government is calling on stakeholders, including the federal government and development partners, to sustain their support and collaboration in strengthening GBV prevention and response mechanisms.
