Every 10 minutes, partners and family members killed a woman intentionally in 2023, this indicates that the crisis of gender-based violence is urgent.
The Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians in Cameroon (SOGOC) in partnership with the Advocacy for Comprehensive Abortion Care (ACAC) and Media Network are joining forces to combat all forms of gender-based violence.
November 25 is celebrated worldwide as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and this event also marks the beginning of the 16 days of activism against Gender-Based violence.
This year the campaign is celebrated under the theme “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to end violence against women and girls”.
It is worth noting that it is a global campaign that calls for the elimination of violence against women and girls, and it is a crucial moment to unify voices and actions against this pervasive issue.
SOGOC Media and the ACAC Network launched the 16 days of activism with a sports walk in Yaounde. During the campaign, the participants sensitized market men and women, medical personnel, passersby and even drivers on the dangers of gender-based violence.
These persons received the messages with such enthusiasm that some made the commitment to denounce all forms they encountered.
The launch was also marked by a word from SOGOC’s Secretary General Dr Anny Ngassam who applauded the media’s commitment to ending Gender-based violence, which she mentioned is both “inspiring and vital”.
“As we gather here, we must remember that gender-based violence is not just a statistic; it is a reality for countless individuals around the world. It manifests in various forms—physical, emotional, and sexual violence—and disproportionately affects women and girls, often leaving lasting scars on their bodies and minds” she said.
SOGOC understands that access to safe abortion is a crucial aspect of Women’s rights and health. The denial of safe abortion services constitutes a form of violence in itself.
“It perpetuates cycles of trauma, poverty, and inequality. When women cannot make decisions about their bodies, they are subjected to further violence—both systemic and personal”, the SOGOC Representative pointed out.
She also added that during these 16 days, their goal is not to raise awareness but to take action. “We must advocate for policy changes that improve Women’s access to safe abortion services. We must support survivors of gender-based violence in accessing the care they need, including reproductive health services”.
They are calling on governments, communities, and individuals to join in the fight. They are calling on all stakeholders to work together to create a world where every woman and girl can live free from violence, and where they can have the autonomy to make decisions about their bodies without fear or stigma.