Ebonyi State Partners NEW Foundation to End Gender-Based Violence
Left: Founder and Executive Director of Neighborhood Environmental Watch (NEW) Foundation presenting the Male Feminists Network initiative to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Felicia Nwamkpuma, in Ebonyi State
By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government has pledged to partner with the Neighborhood Environmental Watch (NEW) Foundation to eradicate gender-based violence across the state’s 13 local government areas.
The assurance was given recently by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Felicia Nwamkpuma, when she received members of the NEW Foundation at her office in Abakaliki, the state capital.
Mrs. Nwamkpuma stated that the state government is committed to collaborating with the Foundation, particularly through its Male Feminists Network, to actively engage men and boys as allies in the fight against gender-based violence.
“I want to assure you and your partners that the Ebonyi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development will work closely with NEW Foundation and provide the necessary support whenever required,” she said.
According to the commissioner, the objectives of NEW Foundation align with the manifesto of the state governor, The People’s Charter of Needs, which prioritizes the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women, as well as the elimination of gender-based violence in the state.
She further expressed strong appreciation for the Foundation’s approach, particularly its strategy of involving men in addressing gender-based violence, describing it as both inclusive and impactful.
“To advance this cause, I wish to express my profound appreciation for the innovative approach adopted by NEW Foundation, especially the inclusion of men as advocates for gender equality and social justice,” she added.
Mrs. Nwamkpuma reaffirmed the ministry’s unalloyed support for the Male Feminists Network project, stressing that the ministry would continue to stand with NEW Foundation in the collective effort to end gender-based violence across the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the Founder and Executive Director of NEW Foundation, Dr. Okezie, explained that the Male Feminists Network is designed to promote gender equality and prevent all forms of violence within communities.
He noted that the visit was aimed at strengthening partnerships between NEW Foundation and relevant government institutions to drive sustainable social change.
“Our engagement today is to deepen collaboration and build stronger partnerships with government agencies towards achieving lasting social transformation and ensuring safer communities for women, girls, and other vulnerable persons,” he stated.
