In a powerful initiative aimed at empowering survivors of domestic violence, the Women’s Rights and Health Project (WRAHP) has joined forces with the Theresa Williams Foundation (TWF) to launch the SWARDA Project (Strengthening Women’s Awareness and Recovery from Domestic Abuse). The project, initiated through a three-day financial literacy program, seeks to uplift 40 women survivors of domestic violence in Lagos State.
Commencing on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at Maryland, Lagos, the event focuses on enhancing participants’ understanding of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and gender inequality. The financial literacy program addresses the critical aspect of women’s empowerment, emphasizing the importance of financial independence.
WRAHP, a registered feminist, woman-led, not-for-profit organization in Nigeria, advocates for the health and development of women, young people, and communities using a rights-based approach. TWF, a UK charity organization, is dedicated to providing life-saving services to African and Caribbean women and children affected by domestic abuse.
Bose Ironsi, WRAHP’s Executive Director, and Joan Obeta from TWF co-signed a statement expressing their excitement about the strategic partnership. They outlined the SWARDA Project’s primary objective: to combat the devastating impact of domestic violence by empowering survivors through financial literacy.
During the pilot phase of the initiative, the collaboration between WRAHP and TWF includes a comprehensive 3-day training on financial literacy for 40 women survivors, survivor-centered SGBV case management services, awareness campaigns, distribution of simplified Lagos State Domestic Violence Law, and social media campaigns to raise public awareness.
The 3-Day Training on Financial Literacy, the first official activity under this partnership, aims to equip women survivors with essential skills to regain control of their financial lives and build secure futures.
According to WRAHP’s Programme Manager, Francis Umoh, who alongside Segun Babalola, WRAHP’s Senior Programme Officer, anchored the event on Wednesday, topics to be covered during the training include budgeting, money management, building financial skills, the power of saving, mental health, legal rights, and the significance of women’s financial empowerment.
The initiative extends beyond financial literacy; it’s about restoring dignity, confidence, and self-sufficiency. By providing survivors with practical tools, the program empowers them to break free from cycles of abuse and build brighter futures. This effort coincides with the celebration of International Women’s Day 2024 under the theme “Inspire Inclusion.”
Nigeria, with its patriarchal societal structure, often places women and girls at a disadvantage, contributing to high incidences of domestic violence. This partnership represents a significant stride toward creating a safer and more equitable society for women and children affected by domestic abuse. WRAHP and TWF are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of survivors and contributing to the eradication of domestic violence in Nigeria.