Market women in rural Rivers train against sexual and gender-based attacks

… As HELDi conducts sensitization outreach at Omoku Main Market

Market women in the Omoku area of Rivers State have joined in training against sexual and gender-based attacks which are said to be rampant in the rural areas of the Niger Delta.

No day passes without reports being lodged at police stations about women being exposed to sexual attacks.

Now, a non-governmental organization, HELDI (Healthy Life Development Initiative), has taken the pains to train the women in most rural areas of the state. On February 27, 2025, the group led by Mfon Utin, conducted trainings and gave other skills for rescue.

Two market women, Joy Ibemesim and Gladys Obinin, at Omoku Main Market, the largest market in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), Rivers State, were said to have voluntarily joined the sensitization efforts, demonstrating their commitment to the cause.

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During the sensitization, the facilitators engaged the audience using real-life examples and relatable experiences. Judy Enyicha provided a clear explanation of SGBV (sexual and gender-based violence), highlighting how harmful behaviours and actions within homes and communities contribute to violence.

She stressed the importance of recognizing all forms of SGBV; physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual, and encouraged individuals to take action in preventing and responding to such cases. She also ensured that participants were aware of the hotlines being distributed and how to contact the response team in cases of SGBV.

A male, Uche Wokocha, further expanded on the discussion by breaking down the different forms of SGBV, including rape, physical abuse, emotional abuse, and psychological abuse. Both sessions sparked thought-provoking questions from market traders and passersby, demonstrating their keen interest in the topic.

He simplified complex legal and psychological terms, making the information accessible to all participants, regardless of their educational background.

HELDI’s Utin concluded the sensitization by sharing crucial information on non-verbal signals that victims can use to seek help in cases of abduction or domestic violence. This information was well received, with market traders expressing eagerness to learn and share this knowledge with others.

According to HELDI officials, the session was highly interactive, with participants actively asking questions, sharing experiences, and expressing concerns about SGBV.

Some men were said to have raised concerns about how certain behaviors and dressing styles contribute to potential abuse, leading to an open discussion on mutual respect, accountability, and the need for a cultural shift in addressing SGBV-related issues.

The global “I Need Help” sign was demonstrated and practised among participants to ensure they understood how to signal for help in dangerous situations.

Participants were also educated on their legal rights concerning SGBV, the importance of reporting cases promptly especially rape within 24 hours to prevent health complications and other infections, and the availability of SGBV response team members within their clans and how to contact them for help.

The outreach aimed to raise awareness among market sellers and buyers about SGBV, its effects, causes, prevention, reporting mechanisms, and the importance of response teams.

The sensitization was facilitated by Uche Wokocha and Judy Enyicha, both indigenes of ONELGA. They delivered the session in both English and the local dialect to ensure clear understanding and effective communication with market traders and buyers.

Following the outreach, the HELDi team, along with some ONELGA representatives, proceeded to meet with the LGA chairman where they met and engaged the chief of staff who gave assurances of support.

Also, in line with the ongoing routine immunization vaccine catch-up campaign in Rivers State and HELDi’s mission to promote good health, the team also took the opportunity to sensitize market sellers and buyers on the importance of vaccination for children. Market women, particularly mothers, were encouraged to visit nearby health centers to access free vaccination services for their children. The awareness session aimed to reinforce the importance of immunization in reducing child mortality and promoting overall community health.