The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), organized a sensitization workshop for traditional and religious leaders, as well as faith-based organizations, on harmful social norms in Sokoto.
The workshop was aimed to sensitize traditional and religious leaders, as well as faith-based organizations, on the importance of promoting positive social norms and eliminating harmful practices that perpetuate violence and discrimination against women and girls.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for Women Affairs Iman Suleiman Ibrahim, represented by Director Women Affairs, Mrs Victoria Lar, emphasized the importance of addressing harmful social norms that perpetuate violence and discrimination against women and girls.
She noted that the workshop would equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to promote positive social change.
The Permanent Secretary of the Sokoto State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Abubakar Alhaji, highlighted the state government’s commitment to promoting womens’ rights and empowerment.
Abubakar Alhaji emphasized the need for collective action to eliminate harmful social norms and practices that hinder womens’ progress.
Several goodwill messages were delivered by distinguished guests, from SMOH, UNFPA, traditional leaders and CSO’S praised the initiative and emphasizing the importance of collaboration in promoting social change.
Two Resource persons including Barrister A’isha Muhammad Dantsoho, and Maryam Bingel made presentations on various topics related to harmful social norms, including ‘Understanding Obstetric Fistula: Causes and Prevention, and Addressing Harmful Social Norms and Stigma against survivors’.
It also beamed a light at the role of Traditional and Religious Leaders in shaping positive community participations.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to share experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies for promoting positive social change in their communities.
