A non governmental organisation, Learning Through Skills Acquisition Initiative-LETSAI says 755 persons with disability and other vulnerable people have reported cases of gender-based violence through voiceless reporting method between January 2020 to December 2022 in Borno state.
At a media briefing in Maiduguri, consultant of the organisation, Susan Tanwie said the method is a new innovation of reporting GBV cases using three key sign languages.
She explained that the pilot project was conducted in Dikwa and Shani local government areas of the state with cases of intimate partner violence, rape, sexual harassment, denial of resources and physical abuse mostly been perpetrated.
According to Miss Tanwie, the three voiceless messaging signs are thumb up used by the survivor to confirm case of GBV, pointing index finger to confirm the perpetrator is close by while the third sign is tapping the index finger and the thumb which signifies danger.
“Many times, survivors of gender-based violence especially women and girls have found themselves in situations where they cannot report abuse by talking especially when the perpetrator is close by. The innovative voiceless reporting mechanism addresses this with three key sign languages which makes it easier for victims to report abuse and seek help” Tanwie said.
The consultant remarked that the NGO is working closely with relevant government agencies, security establishment and other partners to address the plight of victims and ensure perpetrators face justice.
She promised tthat the project would be extended to other local government areas of the state assuring to continue to partner with the media and other stakeholders to prevent all forms of gender-based violence.
The project is increasing access to comprehensive and gender-responsive services for children and survivors of gender-based violence is supported by the United Nations Children Fund UNICEF and other partners.
Dauda Illiya