The Grassroots Researchers Association (GRA), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has called for improved livelihood support and empowerment for persons with disabilities and women assaulted during conflicts in Adamawa.
The Executive Director of GRA, Mr Friday Bitrus, made the call at a Policy Dialogue on Gender Equality and Inclusion on Wednesday in Yola.
The dialogue, organised under a project titled “Strategic Capacity Strengthening and Empowerment to Promote Gender Equality,” was supported by the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organisations (FEF-OSC).
Bitrus said the forum brought together stakeholders and policymakers to develop actionable recommendations for inclusive policies targeting vulnerable groups affected by conflict.
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He explained that the initiative was designed to strengthen economic resilience, dignity and social inclusion of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and women with disabilities.
According to him, significant gaps still exist in promoting gender equality and inclusion, particularly among conflict-affected populations.
Bitrus said that out of 120 survivors assessed, about 101 had not accessed any form of economic empowerment support.
“The situation is worrisome, particularly at the local government level where many survivors are excluded from development programmes,” he said
Bitrus stressed the importance of involving affected persons in planning and decision-making processes to ensure their needs were adequately addressed.
“They understand their challenges best and should be part of designing solutions that affect them,” he said.
The executive director expressed optimism that the engagement would amplify survivors’ voices and promote their inclusion in governance processes.
He added that agreements had been reached with Numan, Mubi North and Madagali Local Government Councils to sustain the project’s interventions.
Also speaking, the Lead Consultant for the policy dialogue, Dr Victor Kwambuge, said Nigeria had adequate policies but faced implementation challenges.
“We have many policies, but gaps exist within institutions responsible for implementing programmes for survivors and persons with disabilities,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the dialogue would produce a policy document to guide lawmakers and strengthen inclusion.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Persis Chagwa, commended the initiative, noting that the training and support had helped participants rebuild their lives and businesses.
Chagwa, however, urged government to complement such efforts with improved access to education, healthcare and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
(NAN)
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