By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the prevention of and response to Gender Based Violence (GBV), emphasising the need for stronger partnerships, improved service delivery and coordinated support for survivors across the state.
The agency made this known during a high level stakeholders’ review meeting convened by Jhpiego on Oct. 28 at Hilton Leisure (Chyben) Hotel, Awka.
The meeting brought together relevant stakeholders to assess ongoing GBV interventions, review service delivery achievements, identify existing gaps and develop practical strategies to improve the state’s response to gender based violence.
A major highlight was the presentation by the Head of ANSACA’s Gender and Human Rights Response Unit, Mr. Cyril Okedinachi, who offered strategic recommendations on strengthening GBV prevention and response mechanisms.
His recommendations focused on improving the quality of services, strengthening referral pathways, enhancing collaboration among service providers and promoting evidence based interventions to ensure survivors receive timely, appropriate and compassionate care.
Participants reviewed the state’s GBV services and available data, Jhpiego’s interventions and achievements, as well as the activities and records of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).
One of the key issues that emerged was the need to harmonise GBV reporting systems across Anambra State. Stakeholders stressed that accurate, consistent and reliable data are critical to identifying service delivery gaps, tracking progress and designing interventions that respond effectively to survivors’ needs.
To ensure that the meeting’s resolutions translate into tangible results, participants worked towards developing actionable plans with clear implementation timelines and assigned responsibilities. The approach is expected to promote accountability, strengthen inter agency collaboration and ensure that agreed recommendations are effectively implemented.
ANSACA commended Jhpiego for its continued partnership and commitment to strengthening GBV prevention and response services in Anambra State.
The agency reiterated its readiness to deepen collaboration with government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders to improve prevention, reporting, referral and response mechanisms.
It emphasised that protecting survivors of gender based violence goes beyond providing immediate assistance, noting that their rights, dignity, safety and well being must remain central to every intervention.
Through its sustained engagement and partnerships, ANSACA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts towards safer communities where survivors can access appropriate healthcare, protection, justice related referrals and other essential support services without discrimination or stigma.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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#EndGBV #SurvivorSupport
