By Okechukwu Onuegbu
The Anambra State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ANSACA) has identified access to funding as among the factors needed to eliminate gender based violence (GBV) and improve the healthcare service delivery to the victims.
The Director, ANSACA, Mr. Johnbosco Nkem Ementa, made the observation while receiving the Advocacy Team of the Global Fund project, Aids Tuberculosis and Malaria (ATM SAT), who were in his office to highlight the ongoing challenges and opportunities in addressing GBV and Gender and Human Rights (GHR) abuses within the state.
According to Ementa, with improved funding to facilitate victim access to healthcare services and other supports, the GBV and GHR issues would be eliminated, because victims would not only assess medication but armed with data and resources for quick justice delivery.
"Despite refresher training for stakeholders, underreporting of GBV actions remains a significant challenge, often hampering the ability to showcase progress and secure the necessary support. Efforts should be made to incorporate individuals, even those without formal organisational affiliations into GBV/GHR advocacy.
"We need to adopt a community-driven approach. Accurate data is pivotal to championing GBV/GHR causes and driving meaningful interventions. These will also help to address systemic gaps in care and justice for victims. We also need media engagement to amplify advocacy, address underreporting, and create widespread awareness," he stated.
He also urged the Anambra State Ministry of Women's Affairs and other stakeholders to maintain comprehensive records of GBV and GHR to enhance the visibility of efforts and ensure effective coordination.
Also speaking, the Senior Program Officer, TB Network, Mr. Onyekachi Ololo, emphasised the importance of collaboration and timely intervention to support survivors of GBV and GHR abuses in Anambra State.
Ololo also provided updates on active case-finding efforts conducted by case managers and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) implementing the project.
Earlier speaking, the ATM Project State Coordinator, Mrs. Ify Unachukwu, underscored the need for data harmonisation among partners addressing GBV/GHR and called on ANSACA and security agencies for more responsive actions to improve outcomes.