BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The UAD Support and Care Initiative (UADSCI) has stepped up advocacy against rising cases of online and offline gender-based violence with a community sensitisation at Kurmin Mashi, Kaduna.
The sensitisation, themed ‘Unite! To End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls’, brought together adolescents, young women, traditional and religious leaders, to deepen knowledge on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Technology-Facilitated GBV (TFGBV) and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR).
Executive Director of UADSCI, Umaymah Abdullahi Danladi, in her opening remarks, urged young people to be more responsible in their online activities, warning that actions taken in digital spaces have serious consequences. She said cyberbullying and online harassment remain growing threats to the wellbeing of young people.
Danladi encouraged participants to use the 16 Days of Activism to promote safety, respect and dignity in their communities and online platforms, stressing the need for collective vigilance.
The lead facilitator, Ahmed Sani Yahaya, explained the various forms of GBV and emerging digital threats such as online stalking, impersonation, hate speech and deepfake content. He also guided participants on recognising manipulated images, safeguarding digital identities and reporting harmful online behaviour.
Yahaya further highlighted the importance of early digital literacy for adolescents and urged parents, schools and community structures to monitor online exposure while providing safe channels for young people to report abuse.
Other facilitators took participants through referral pathways, the role of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) and relevant support services.
Participants underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, responsible use of social media and enhanced community engagement.
