Introduction
The Okaha Women and Children Development Organisation (OWACDO), in collaboration with the Women, Infant and Children Care Initiative (WICCI), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has taken significant steps to empower survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and human trafficking. This initiative aims to rehabilitate these survivors, equipping them with valuable skills to improve their lives and reduce their vulnerability.
Empowerment and Graduation Ceremony
OWACDO and WICCI sponsored four survivors of GBV and human trafficking in a comprehensive fashion design training program. Upon their successful graduation from Gab-Chi Fashion House, a leading fashion house in Makurdi, Benue State, these survivors received sewing machines, cash support, tables, and chairs. This empowerment is part of resilient measures to rehabilitate them and make them less vulnerable to the scourge of GBV.
At the recently concluded Gab-Chi Fashion Show and Graduation of 20 trainees on Monday, April 1st, 2024, held at the Aminu Isah Kontangora Art Theater Complex in Makurdi, Mrs. Joy Ijuwo, Executive Director of OWACDO, emphasized the importance of striving for excellence. She called on women and girls in the fashion design apprenticeship program to pursue their duties with dedication, promoting greater inclusion and participation in line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: “Inspire Inclusion: Invest in Women.”
Mrs. Ijuwo stressed the need for adequate empowerment of women and girls, encouraging them to not only learn functional skills but also to pass on these trainings to others. She highlighted the importance of inspiring inclusion, promoting women’s education and empowerment, and breaking gender biases through collective and concerted action.
Support and Vision for the Future
Mr. Matthew Aboh, the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism in Benue State, represented by Mr. Isaac Akaunde, discussed the Ministry’s aim to promote Made-in-Nigeria products. He noted that the theme of the Gab-Chi fashion show, “Promoting Benue Fashion Industry,” could be achieved by raising awareness, providing support through workshops, and improving the quality of products offered. He urged collaboration with the fashion industry and commended Gab-Chi Fashion House for promoting decent dressing among the youth.
Mr. Martins Gabriel Ochigbo, Chief Executive Officer of Gab-Chi Fashion House, shared his vision of guiding the youth towards skill acquisition, steering them away from vices. He assured the audience that all showcased items were proudly made in Nigeria, reflecting Gab-Chi’s mission to engage youths, women, and girls in productive and creative endeavors.
Mr. Donald Abah, a representative of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), pledged the agency’s support for fashion clusters. He also disclosed that entrepreneurs registered with SMEDAN are entitled to fifty thousand naira upon registration.
The event featured a vibrant fashion parade where graduates showcased the outfits they produced during their training. The celebration was enlivened by cultural dances from Idoma and Tiv cultural groups. A total of 20 fashion designers, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, graduated. Four of these graduates were sponsored by WICCI through OWACDO under its special GBV survivors support program.
Conclusion
The collaboration between OWACDO and WICCI demonstrates a strong commitment to empowering survivors of GBV and human trafficking. By equipping them with valuable skills and resources, these organizations are fostering resilience and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The successful graduation of these trainees from Gab-Chi Fashion House marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to support and uplift vulnerable individuals in the community.
