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To mark this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), it is crucial to recognize the importance of intersectionality in developing effective prevention strategies, especially within the African context, and more specifically in Nigeria. Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, refers to the ways in which various social identities such as race, gender, class, and sexuality interact to create unique experiences of oppression and privilege. This framework is essential for understanding the complexities surrounding violence against women and girls in Nigeria, where diverse cultural, economic, and social factors converge, leading to varied experiences of violence.

In Nigeria, the statistics on violence against women and girls are staggering. According to a 2018 report by the National Population Commission, about 30% of Nigerian women have experienced physical violence at some point in their lives (National Population Commission, 2018). Factors such as poverty, cultural norms that condone violence, and limited access to education exacerbate the vulnerability of women and girls. Women from lower socio-economic backgrounds are particularly at risk for intimate partner violence (IPV) and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV), as they often lack the power to make decisions within their households and communities (UKAID report, 2022). Moreover, marginalized groups—including women with disabilities and those from ethnic minorities—face compounded risks that are frequently overlooked in traditional VAWG prevention frameworks.

Recognizing these complexities, organizations like ACT Foundation are dedicated to promoting intersectional approaches in their initiatives. By supporting local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) such as Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), Stand to End Rape Initiative (STER), and Cece Yara Foundation, ACT Foundation aims to enhance the effectiveness of VAWG prevention efforts throughout Nigeria and Africa at large. These partnerships are vital for implementing tailored interventions that consider the unique vulnerabilities faced by different groups of women and girls.

For example, WARIF has developed programs specifically designed to address the needs of young girls at risk of sexual violence. By providing educational resources and safe spaces for discussion, WARIF empowers young girls while engaging community leaders to challenge harmful norms that perpetuate violence. This initiative exemplifies how intersectional strategies can lead to more effective prevention outcomes by focusing on education and community engagement.

Similarly, STER has been instrumental in advocating for legal reforms that protect survivors of sexual violence while offering support services such as counseling and legal aid. Their work highlights the importance of understanding the legal barriers that different groups face when seeking justice. Women from rural areas may encounter additional obstacles due to geographical isolation or lack of awareness about their rights. By addressing these barriers through an intersectional lens, STER is helping create a more equitable legal framework for all women.

Cece Yara Foundation focuses on child sexual abuse prevention by raising awareness among children about their rights and providing them with tools to speak out against abuse. Their approach emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive education that resonates with local communities. This grassroots strategy not only empowers children but also educates parents and caregivers about the importance of protecting young girls from violence.

The collective efforts of these organizations underscore a significant shift towards recognizing the diverse experiences of women and girls in Nigeria. By employing intersectional approaches, they can make visible the often-overlooked vulnerabilities that contribute to violence against women. This visibility is crucial for developing targeted interventions that resonate with those most affected by VAWG.

Furthermore, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize "leaving no one behind," which aligns perfectly with the principles of intersectionality. The focus on inclusivity necessitates that VAWG prevention strategies be designed with an understanding of how various identities intersect to create unique experiences of violence (UN Women, 2019). In Nigeria, this means ensuring that interventions are not one-size-fits-all but tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse populations.

As we commemorate this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, it is imperative to advocate for intersectional approaches in VAWG prevention strategies across Africa, particularly in Nigeria. The work being done by ACT Foundation in collaboration with organizations like WARIF, STER, and Cece Yara Foundation etc., exemplifies how understanding intersecting vulnerabilities can lead to more effective and inclusive solutions. These efforts not only aim to reduce instances of violence but also empower women and girls to reclaim their rights and voices within their communities. By prioritizing intersectionality in our approaches to VAWG prevention, we can create a safer environment for all women and girls in Nigeria and Africa at large.

References

National Population Commission. (2018). Nigeria demographic and health survey 2018. Abuja, Nigeria: National Population Commission.. Retrieved from https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/SR264/SR264.pdf(https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/SR264/SR264.pdf)

UN Women. (2019). Exploring intersectional approaches to preventing violence against women and girls.. Retrieved from https://untf.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-01/synthesis%20review%20-%20intersectional%20aproaches.pdf (https://untf.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-01/synthesis%20review%20-%20intersectional%20aproaches.pdf )

UKAID (2022). Evidence review on effective interventions for preventing violence against women. Retrieved from https://www.whatworks.co.za/documents/publications/374-evidence-reviewfweb/file (https://www.whatworks.co.za/documents/publications/374-evidence-reviewfweb/file )