VAPP Act: Enforcement, Victim Support Remains As Challenges, Nnachi, ED WOMAN

Eunice Nnachi, executive director of Women Organization for Mentorship and Advocacy, Network, WOMAN, a non-government organisation based in Yenagoa says enforcement, and providing victim support remains as challenges in the implementation of VAPP Acts in Bayelsa State. Excerpts.

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Between 25 November and 10 December every year, is commemorated as 16 days of activism against gender based violence. What’s the significance role of the period in Bayelsa state?

The 16 Days of Activism in Bayelsa State emphasizes raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and mobilizing action against it, aligning with global efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls.

Based on this year’s theme, how has your NGO impacted lives in society?

This year’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30,” has inspired our NGO to conduct Market, community outreach and educational programs, visitation of Bayelsa State school of children with special needs, significantly increasing awareness and support for survivors of GBV in society

What’s your assessment on the role of government agencies in curbing gender based violence in Bayelsa?

Government agencies in Bayelsa play a critical role by implementing laws like the VAPP Act, but challenges remain in enforcement and victim support, limiting effectiveness.

In your work area, what are the identifiable reasons for the spate of violence against women and children in Bayelsa?

Identifiable reasons for violence against women and children in Bayelsa include entrenched cultural norms, poverty, lack of education, and inadequate legal protections

The Bayelsa State government since 2020 had domesticated the VAPP act. Do you think this has helped speed up the dispensation of justice for survivors in the state?

The domestication of the VAPP Act since 2020 has improved justice delivery for survivors, though gaps in implementation still exists.

Share some of your success stories in the fight against gender based violence since it’s inception?

My success stories include increased reporting of Gender Based Violence cases and successful legal interventions that have led to convictions, showcasing the impact of advocacy efforts. Also visitation of BDGS for sensitization on GBV, and Igbogene community.

Tell us about your NGO, WOMAN. What does it stand for and it’s major thematic work area.

Our NGO, WOMAN, stands for “Women Organization for Mentorship and Advocacy, Network, WOMAN” focusing on empowering women through education, legal support, and community engagement to combat GBV.

We carry out development campaigns in line with the sustainable development goals, in order to eradicate gender based violence. Besides, we organize community outreach to educate families and communities on politics, health, education, energy, finance, environmental and agricultural practices.