2,700 women survivors of trafficking have been rehabilitated for social and economic independence between 2014 and 2021, according to Pathfinders Justice Initiative (PJI), a Non-Governmental Organisation.
PJI stated that while Nigeria remains a source and transit for and destination country of human trafficking, its population has made it to be routinely listed as one of the countries with the largest number of trafficked victims overseas (particularly in Europe), with victims identified in 34 countries in four regions in 2018.
The Executive Director of PJI and HERS (Hub of Economic Resources for Survivors) Africa, Ruth Evon Benson-Idahosa, made this known in a statement, even as she launched a new initiative – HERS AFRICA.
She explained that the initiative is the first and only digital ‘one stop’ resource hub in Africa to address the unique and complete needs of survivors of trafficking as they navigate a path towards self-sustainability and economic independence.
She said: “It is our hope that this one stop digital hub, the first of its kind in Africa will address the unique and complete needs of African survivors, and will provide you with the resources you need to journey from victim to advocate.
“Our mission is to prevent sex slavery/sexual violence and to liberate enslaved women and girls through the direct eradication of root causes.”
Benson-Idahosa explained that by registering with hersafrica.com, survivors of sex trafficking can get access to life transforming and exciting video lectures, vetted current job opportunities, one-on-one counselling services and list of service providers to get support from anywhere in Nigeria and beyond.
She therefore urged interested Nigerians to take advantage of the services which she said are totally free of charge.
