The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening efforts to prevent and respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasising the importance of stronger partnerships, improved service delivery and coordinated support for survivors across the state.
The agency made this commitment during a high-level stakeholders’ review meeting convened by Jhpiego at Hilton Leisure (Chyben) Hotel, Awka.
The meeting brought together relevant stakeholders to assess ongoing GBV interventions, review service delivery achievements, identify existing gaps and develop practical strategies for strengthening the state’s response to gender-based violence.
A major highlight of the meeting was a presentation by the Head of ANSACA’s Gender and Human Rights Response Unit, Mr Cyril Okedinachi, who outlined strategic recommendations for improving GBV prevention and response mechanisms.
His recommendations focused on enhancing service quality, strengthening referral pathways, improving collaboration among service providers and promoting evidence-based interventions to ensure survivors receive timely, appropriate and compassionate care.
Participants also reviewed the state’s GBV services and available data, Jhpiego’s interventions and achievements, as well as the activities and records of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).
A key issue identified was the need to harmonise GBV reporting systems across Anambra State. Stakeholders stressed that accurate, consistent and reliable data are essential for identifying service delivery gaps, monitoring progress and developing interventions that adequately address survivors’ needs.
To ensure effective implementation of the meeting’s resolutions, participants worked towards developing actionable plans with clear timelines and assigned responsibilities. The approach is expected to strengthen accountability, promote inter-agency collaboration and ensure that agreed recommendations translate into measurable results.
ANSACA commended Jhpiego for its continued partnership and commitment to strengthening GBV prevention and response services in the state.
The agency also reiterated its readiness to deepen collaboration with government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders to improve prevention, reporting, referral and response mechanisms.
It emphasised that protecting survivors of gender-based violence goes beyond providing immediate assistance, stressing that their rights, dignity, safety and well-being must remain central to every intervention.
ANSACA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the creation of safer communities where survivors can access appropriate healthcare, protection, justice-related referrals and other essential support services without discrimination or stigma.
