Summary Report of CSDEA Gender Based Violence and Psychosocial Support Workshop

The Centre for Sustainable Development and Education in Africa (CSDEA) organized a one-day Gender Based Violence and Psychosocial Support Workshop on the 27th of January, 2024, at the Women Development Center in Yola, Adamawa State. The training which had over 40 participants drawn from Adamawa and Borno states addressed the challenges faced by girls and women who are survivors of Boko Haram activities in the North East by providing them with essential knowledge and skills to heal from trauma and prevent sexual and gender-based violence.

The workshop commenced with a welcome address by Mrs. Arziki Sawa, Acting Executive Director of CSDEA. She stated that CSDEA started its peacebuilding work and outreaches in Adamawa State in 2013, culminating in impactful projects. Since 2017, the CSDEA has been supporting hundreds of girls and women from Adamawa and Borno states with psychosocial support, livelihoods and mentorship skills. Most of these women are traumatized by the activities of Boko Haram and other violent extremist groups. CSDEA helps them to heal including systematic support with sustainable means of trade and livelihoods. Some of them have now healed from trauma and engage in various businesses ranging from rearing their own cows to tailoring.

The workshop was part of CSDEA’s project to help girls and women who are survivors of Boko Haram activities in the North East. The aim of the training was to share general knowledge on how young girls and women who have been exposed to violence or are survivors of violence can heal from trauma and experience peace. The workshop also discussed issues of gender-based violence and how girls and women who have such experiences become traumatized, including equipping participants with life skills to prevent and mitigate the impacts of gender-based violence.

The Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs in Adamawa State, Honorable Wunfe Anthony officially declared the workshop open by commending the CSDEA for this great initiative and contribution to the development of humanity. She said the event was timely in a period where girls and women are molested mentally and physically. She urged participants to take the knowledge to their communities (step down).

The workshop was facilitated by renowned experts who covered a range of topics including introduction to gender-based violence, trauma healing, and the path to peace. Group activities encouraged interactive learning and community building among participants. Mrs. Regina Vincent provided a comprehensive overview of gender-based violence, highlighting its impact on individuals and society. Professor Anna Malgwi delved into the broader societal implications of gender-based violence, offering insights into its root causes and potential solutions. Joseph Ti-Dzala facilitated a session on trauma healing and the path to peace, equipping participants with practical tools to cope with their experiences.

The workshop emphasized the importance of ongoing support and collaboration. It provided participants with valuable insights into gender-based violence, trauma healing, and psychosocial support. Attendees gained practical life skills to prevent and mitigate the impacts of gender-based violence, and cope with their traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and empowerment. Participants suggested the need for follow up workshops, and to conduct awareness campaigns to educate the broader community about the impact of gender-based violence and traumatic experiences girls and women encounter in their everyday life.

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