Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a shadow that often thrives in silence, but in the Kalobeyei Settlement, that silence is being broken.
Last week, Stop Child Abuse (SCA) brought together 100 women from Villages 1, 2, and 3 for an intensive, transformative dialogue on GBV prevention, rights, and collective safety.
Turning Dialogue into Power The session moved beyond theory.
We examined the root causes of violence, identified local protection mechanisms, and established a unified network of support. For these women, the session was a realization that their safety is a right, not a favor, and that their collective voice is their strongest defense.
Voices from the Women of Kalobeyei The power of the session was best reflected in the testimonies shared by participants:
"I always felt that what happened in my home was my own cross to bear," one woman from Village 2 shared. "Being here today with 99 other women, I realized I am not alone. I have the right to speak up, and now I know exactly where to go to get help."
A participant from Village 3 added: "We are often told to be 'patient' for the sake of the family.
Today, we learned that 'patience' with violence is not a virtue it is dangerous.
I am going back to my village not just as a mother, but as a leader who will protect her neighbors.
Our Call to Action While this session reached 100 women, our work has only just begun. SCA calls on the Kalobeyei community, partners, and local leaders to:
- Stop the Stigma: Shift the burden of shame from the survivor to the perpetrator.
- Strengthen Referral Pathways: Ensure that protection services are not just accessible on paper, but are operational and trusted in every village.
- Invest in Women’s Leadership: Continue to support platforms where women can organize, educate, and protect one another.
We believe that a community where women are safe is a community where children can thrive.
Join us in this mission. Safety is a fundamental right let’s ensure it is enjoyed by every woman and child in Kalobeyei.
