December 13, 2021
Children of Gbatobu, Bo district have expressed their ambition to be educated rather than being penetrated by men. They demanded that their space should be protected so that they cannot be a victim of sexual abuse as they want education.
They made such expression at the commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, WAVES-SL has engaged community people/stakeholders at Gbatobu on Thursday with key GBV messages to inspire change in attitudes and to support Girl-child education underscoring this year’s campaign theme; “Orange the world: End violence against women now!”
The children at Gbatobu said that “we want to bring development in our community so do not sexually abuse us but give us book to be education not penis.”
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Girls Campaign is a United Nations campaign that takes place annually from 25th November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10th December (International Human Rights Day).
According to the Director of WAVES- Sierra Leone, “Violence against women and girls is one of the most pervasive and devastating human rights violations in our world today, threatening millions of girls and women in our communities. Women of all ages, backgrounds, and educational levels are affected.”
WAVES message was clear to the gathering; which was Girls’ education is the single best investment that any society can make .Therefore; the people shouldn’t compromise any case of SGBV against girls. The invitation by WAVES team to every community member is for a concerted effort to end SGBV in Sierra Leone.
The girls spoke at the engagement with a collective message was that they want Education NOT FGM/marriage.
On their part, the community leaders, including the town chief, youth leader, Bike riders’ rep, women leader and school authorities, assured the adolescent girls of upholding their safety and human rights.