Kano, Nigeria – 25–30 November 2024 – Following the launch of the 2024 16 Days of Activism
Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Lift Africa Foundation begins statewide engagements
designed to elevate survivor voices, deepen community understanding of GBV, and strengthen
public demand for legal protection in Kano State.
Over the first five days of the campaign, the Foundation prioritises communication, awareness
and mobilisation — using media platforms, community conversations and policy dialogues to
highlight the human impact of GBV and the urgent need for the domestication of the Violence
Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act.
Using Media Platforms to Centre Survivor Experiences
Lift Africa Foundation partners with leading radio stations across Kano to host a series of daily
interviews, discussions and call-in programmes. Survivors, community advocates, medical
practitioners, legal experts and youth leaders share their experiences and expertise, shedding
light on the realities of violence faced by women and girls across the state.
These media engagements serve as safe spaces for:
- survivors to share stories anonymously
- communities to gain clarity on what constitutes GBV
- parents to understand signs of abuse and reporting options
- the public to learn about available services and support systems
- duty-bearers to address misconceptions about the VAPP Act
The Foundation emphasises that survivor stories are essential evidence, helping communities
recognise GBV not as isolated events, but as systemic challenges that require coordinated
reform.
Expanding Public Understanding of the VAPP Act
Throughout the media engagements, Lift Africa Foundation breaks down the provisions of the
VAPP Act in clear and accessible language. The discussions centre on:
- why Kano urgently needs the Act
- types of violence covered under the law
- how the Act provides stronger protection for survivors
- penalties for perpetrators under a harmonised VAPP framework
- how the Act aligns with Islamic principles and local justice systems
By demystifying the law, the Foundation equips the public with accurate information that
counters misconceptions and resistance.
Strengthening Community-Level Mobilisation
During this first phase, Lift Africa works with community-based organisations, student
associations, women’s groups and youth networks to mobilise volunteers and awareness
champions. These local partners support the campaign by:
- raising community awareness
- distributing educational materials
- identifying vulnerable cases for referral
- promoting conversations around safety and protection
- preparing for upcoming community outreach events
The Foundation recognises that grassroots mobilisation is the backbone of effective GBV
prevention efforts.
Creating Safe Pathways for Reporting and Referral
Across the media activities, Lift Africa Foundation highlights the importance of early reporting
and provides information on:
- the Waraka Sexual Assault Referral Centre
- available medical and psychosocial support services
- how to report cases safely
- protection mechanisms for child and adolescent survivors
- confidential channels for referrals
The Foundation stresses that effective GBV response depends on survivors feeling safe,
informed and supported.
Strengthening the Public Demand for Legal Reform
As conversations unfold across the state, communities become increasingly aware that the
absence of the VAPP Act undermines justice for survivors. The Foundation uses this momentum
to build a unified, community-driven call for:
- immediate domestication of the VAPP Act
- strengthened justice pathways
- enhanced funding for survivor services
- protection infrastructure across LGAs
- greater accountability from state institutions
Lift Africa Foundation’s Commitment
The first phase of the 2024 16 Days of Activism campaign demonstrates Lift Africa
Foundation’s commitment to:
- amplifying survivor voices
- strengthening public literacy on GBV
- promoting community ownership of prevention efforts
- advancing evidence-based advocacy for legal reform
- supporting survivors with information and pathways to justice
This foundational work sets the stage for heightened advocacy, policy engagement and
community action throughout the remaining days of the campaign.