October 1, 2024
From stigma to strength: The inauguration of Nigeria’s survivor-led network
Empowering survivors with a survivor-centred and survivor-led approach
In a significant step towards the fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria, the Dr. Denis Mukwege Foundation and its implementing partner Grassroots Researchers Association launched a new Nigerian Survivors’ Network: the Women and Children – Conflict Survivors Foundation (WCCSF).
Based on the Mukwege Foundation’s experience, it has been demonstrated that the power lies in the strategic approach to supporting survivor-led networks to ensure that survivors are at the centre of the effort to defend their rights.
In addition, research indicates that participation in peer-led networks has a positive impact on survivors, including increased feelings of support, recognition and well-being.
This model of survivor-led activism has been proven to be an effective method of enabling survivors to overcome stigma and assume a leading role in efforts to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence.
Survivor-led network in northeast Nigeria working to end conflict-related sexual violence
The Women and Children – Conflict Survivors Foundation (WCCSF) officially celebrated its launch on 31 May 2024. The network works in nine Local Government Areas (LGA) across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States.
These LGAs include Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), Gwoza, Monguno, Madagali, Yola, Mubi, Damaturu, Gujba and Geidam. Each LGA is coordinated by nine strong network trained leaders with a membership structure of 507 survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.
The objectives of the survivors’ network are threefold:
- To increase solidarity among survivors in Nigeria.
- To empower survivors.
- To listen to survivors’ voices for awareness and policy change.
The network’s work is guided by values that each member must abide by, such as togetherness, confidentiality, transparency, cooperation, respect, and inclusivity.
“I’m deeply inspired by the power of our Survivors Network to advocate for an end to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). It’s essential that every survivor has a voice and the strength to stand up for themselves and demand change. This is a cause I’m passionately committed to, and I’m honored to be part of a network that is making a real difference.” Fadimatu, SEMA Member.
In the longer term, the network strives to become the main interlocutors to local, regional, and national authorities and stakeholders (local commissioners, UN clusters, NGOs, etc) in the area when talking about conflict-related sexual violence and interacting with survivors.
“I commend the resilience and determination of the survivors. Together, we are a powerful force for change, advocating for an end to the pervasive issue of conflict-related sexual violence. I am grateful for the unwavering support of the Mukwege Foundation and Grassroots Researchers Association, which have provided us with the platform and resources to amplify our voices and drive meaningful action” Falmata, SEMA member.
“Being a part of the Survivors Network in Nigeria, a movement that empowers survivors and advocates for their rights, is a privilege for me. As a strong advocate for a survivor-centred approach, I believe in the transformative power of survivor leadership and inspiration. This network has exceeded my expectations and fulfilled my dream of creating a more compassionate and just society. I am grateful for the support of the Mukwege Foundation, which has provided the platform for us to actualise the vision.” Timothy, SEMA Alliance Member.
Key figures speak out on survivor resilience
The launch of the network was an opportunity to gather survivors, local and international NGOs but also influential governmental and outstanding women leaders such as the State Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon Zuwaira Gambo, who emphasised the importance of self-reliance and empowerment for survivors and the necessity for care and consideration for those who have endured significant psychological following their traumatic experience as a survivor.
She stated: “Today’s event marks not just the end of one journey but the beginning of many more as we collectively strive to foster a safer, more inclusive, and greener Borno State.”
Tree planting campaign: a survivor-led initiative to fight climate change
The launching of the network was also an opportunity to kick start the tree planting campaign, an initiative that embodies environmental sustainability and community development. By planting trees, survivors are taking tangible steps to combat climate change, enhance the environment, and promote a culture of conservation and ecological responsibilities.
The Commissioner of Women Affairs in Nigeria recognised the Mukwege Foundation for its pivotal role in establishing and supporting survivor networks across the country. The Foundation’s work has been instrumental in empowering survivors of sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) and providing them with essential support services.
In a symbolic gesture, they planted a tree in the name of the Mukwege Foundation to commemorate its significant contributions.
Thank you
We thank the Borno State Government, in particular the State Commissioner of Women Affairs and Social Development, for its strong commitment to supporting survivors of sexual violence. We also thank our funder, the German Federal Agency for Foreign Affairs. Their support was key to launching the network of survivors in northeast Nigeria.
