Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), in collaboration with MAC Viva Glam, has disclosed plans to empower disenfranchised women, girls and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) by providing them with crucial skills necessary for achieving economic independence.
This is even as WARIF has expanded its Women Empowerment Programme (WEP) to new local government areas across Lagos and Oyo states.
In a press statement made available to LEADERSHIP Sunday, the founder of WARIF, Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, said the expanded programme will enhance opportunities and support for those who need it most, thereby furthering WARIF’s mission to foster lasting change and empowerment in the community.
Speaking on the empowerment programme, DaSilva-Ibru said WEP focuses on promoting financial autonomy among survivors through vocational training and financial literacy, adding that, “This initiative emerged from the necessity to address GBV in rural areas, raise awareness about sexual violence risks, empower survivors with financial literacy and skills to achieve self-reliance and provide information about the free services available at the WARIF Rape Crisis Centre.
“These services include immediate medical care, forensic examinations, psychosocial counselling, legal aid and access to shelters. The aim is to empower participants to make informed decisions and regain control over their health and lives. By tackling the economic factors contributing to GBV and gender inequality, WARIF aims to create pathways for survivors to break free from cycles of dependency and abuse, the founder affirmed.
She thanked MAC Viva Glam for its crucial support and partnership in the fight against rape and other forms of gender-based violence in Nigeria.