Gender Equality

Addressing Abuse and Early Pregnancy

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Abuse and early pregnancy continue to threaten the health, dignity, and future of women and girls globally. These issues are deeply rooted in inequality and human rights violations, disproportionately affecting girls in vulnerable communities. According to the United Nations Population Fund, an estimated 21 million adolescent girls (aged 15–19) become pregnant every year in low- and middle-income countries [1]. Alarmingly, recent global findings show that more than one in eight girls experience sexual violence before the age of 18, highlighting the strong link between abuse and early pregnancy [2]. These realities underscore the urgent need for protective systems that prioritize girls’ safety, education, and health.

The causes of early pregnancy are complex and interconnected. Key drivers include poverty, lack of education, gender-based violence, child marriage, and limited access to sexual and reproductive health services. Recent research shows that adolescent pregnancy is rarely a deliberate choice but often the result of coercion, lack of autonomy, and restricted access to information and services [1]. In fragile and conflict-affected settings, these risks are even higher. A 2026 report by UNFPA revealed a sharp increase in child marriage and adolescent pregnancies in crisis-affected regions, driven by insecurity, displacement, and economic hardship [3]. In Nigeria, data indicates that one in three young women are married before age 18, further increasing the likelihood of early pregnancy and lifelong disadvantage [4].

The consequences of abuse and early pregnancy are severe and long-lasting. Health risks include complications during pregnancy and childbirth, unsafe abortions, and increased vulnerability to infections. For girls under 15, the risk of maternal death is significantly higher than for older women [1]. Socially and economically, early pregnancy often leads to school dropout, reduced employment opportunities, and cycles of poverty. Studies show that girls who become pregnant early are less likely to complete their education and more likely to face long-term financial instability [1]. Additionally, survivors of abuse often experience trauma, depression, and social stigma, which further limits their opportunities and well-being.

To address these challenges, governments, and organizations such as Centre for Family Health Initiative, UNICEF and United Nations Population Fund are implementing evidence-based interventions. These include comprehensive sexuality education, access to youth-friendly health services, enforcement of laws against child marriage and gender-based violence, and community awareness programs. Recent evidence from Northern Nigeria shows that investing in girls’ education could reduce child marriage by up to two-thirds and significantly lower adolescent pregnancy rates [4]. Additionally, programs that empower girls economically, provide safe spaces, and engage men and boys in gender equality discussions have proven effective in reducing abuse and early pregnancy.

In conclusion, addressing abuse and early pregnancy requires urgent, collective action. Families, communities, governments, and organizations must work together to create safe environments where girls are protected, educated, and empowered. Every girl deserves the right to grow, learn, and make informed choices about her life without fear of violence or coercion. The call to action is clear: strengthen laws, invest in education, expand access to healthcare, and challenge harmful norms that put girls at risk. When we protect and empower women and girls, we build stronger, healthier, and more equitable societies for all.

References

[1] https://www.unfpa.org/adolescent-pregnancy/
[2]  https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-protection/violence/sexual-violence/
[3] https://www.unfpa.org/sowp
[4] https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/child-protection

 

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Breaking Barriers to Quality Care for Women and Girls.

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Breaking barriers to quality care for women and girls remains one of the most urgent global health priorities. Despite progress, millions of women still face obstacles in accessing essential healthcare services due to inequality, poverty, and weak health systems. According to the World Health Organization, at least half of the world’s population still lacks access to essential health services [1]. For women and girls, these gaps are even more pronounced, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where cultural norms, financial constraints, and limited infrastructure restrict access to care. Ensuring equitable healthcare is not only a moral obligation but a critical step toward sustainable development.

Maternal health remains a key indicator of these disparities. The United Nations reports that approximately 800 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth [2]. Many of these deaths occur due to lack of skilled birth attendants, poor access to emergency obstetric care, and delays in seeking treatment. In addition, adolescent girls face heightened risks due to early pregnancies and limited access to reproductive health education and services. Addressing these challenges requires targeted interventions that prioritize both prevention and timely access to quality care.

Several interventions have proven effective in breaking these barriers. Expanding access to primary healthcare, strengthening community health systems, and increasing the availability of skilled healthcare workers are essential steps. Programs that integrate maternal, newborn, and child health services, alongside nutrition, immunization, and gender-based violence prevention, have shown measurable impact. Organizations like the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) continue to implement community-based interventions, including health education, outreach services, and capacity building for healthcare providers, ensuring that women and girls receive the care they need at the grassroots level.

However, lasting change requires strong government commitment and investment. Governments must prioritize the revitalization of health facilities, ensuring they are well-equipped, adequately staffed, and accessible to all women and girls. Policies that promote free or affordable healthcare services, especially for maternal and reproductive health, must be enforced. Furthermore, health facilities must uphold dignity, respect, and quality in service delivery, recognizing that every woman deserves safe and compassionate care regardless of her background or location.

In conclusion, breaking barriers to quality care for women and girls demands collective action from governments, organizations, communities, and individuals. There is a need to challenge harmful norms, invest in health systems, and empower women with knowledge and resources to make informed health decisions. Let this serve as a call to action: prioritize women’s health, support inclusive policies, and advocate for stronger healthcare systems. By working together, we can ensure that every woman and girl has access to the quality care she deserves, leading to healthier families, stronger communities, and a more equitable world.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of gender-based violence and gender bias. 

Reference

  1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/universal-health-coverage-(uhc)
  2. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality

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Advancing Equitable Access to Primary Healthcare for Women and Girls

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Access to quality primary healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet for millions of women and girls in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa, this right remains far from reality. Despite global commitments to universal health coverage, structural inequalities continue to shape who gets care, when, and how. In Nigeria, nearly 52% of women report facing at least one barrier to accessing healthcare, with financial constraints, distance to facilities, and lack of autonomy among the most pressing challenges [1]. These barriers are not just statistics; they translate into preventable suffering and loss of life. Nigeria continues to carry one of the highest burdens of maternal mortality globally, with an estimated 145 women dying daily from pregnancy-related causes and a lifetime risk of 1 in 18 for women [2].

The roots of this inequity are deeply embedded in socioeconomic and cultural systems. For many women, especially those in rural and underserved communities, the cost of healthcare remains prohibitive. Out-of-pocket payments dominate the health financing system, and without adequate insurance coverage, seeking care often becomes a last resort rather than a first step. Even when services are available, geographic barriers such as long distances to health facilities, poor road networks, and inadequate transportation systems further limit access [3]. Compounding these challenges are entrenched gender norms that restrict women’s ability to make independent decisions about their health. Evidence shows that in some settings, more than half of healthcare providers still believe women should not independently choose family planning methods, reflecting systemic biases that undermine women’s agency [4].

Weak health systems further widen the gap. Many primary healthcare facilities lack skilled personnel, essential medicines, and functional infrastructure, making them unable to meet the needs of women and girls effectively. At the same time, the growing reliance on digital health solutions risks leaving women behind due to persistent gender gaps in digital access and literacy [5]. These overlapping barriers highlight the urgent need for a more inclusive and equitable approach to healthcare delivery.

Yet, evidence consistently shows that strengthening primary healthcare systems is one of the most effective ways to improve health outcomes for women and girls. Community-based healthcare models, particularly those that deploy trained community health workers, have demonstrated remarkable impact, contributing to reductions of up to 30% in child mortality by bringing essential services closer to households [3]. Beyond saving lives, equitable primary healthcare improves family planning uptake, enhances disease prevention, and strengthens the overall resilience of communities.

Recognizing these realities, the Nigerian government has introduced several interventions aimed at expanding access to primary healthcare. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) continues to play a central role in revitalizing primary healthcare systems and improving service delivery at the grassroots level [6]. Initiatives such as the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII) have been implemented to tackle high maternal mortality rates through targeted system strengthening and improved care delivery [2]. At the state, Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI)’s BIRTH Project have demonstrated promising results in improving maternal and child health outcomes by addressing malnutrition through community-based education, promotion of optimal infant and young child feeding practices, and strengthened linkage to quality primary healthcare services [9]. Community-Based Health Insurance Schemes have also emerged as a practical approach to reducing out-of-pocket expenses and improving access to care for vulnerable populations [7].

Beyond government efforts, international organizations and development partners have contributed significantly to advancing equitable healthcare. UNICEF’s Equitable Impact Sensitive Tool (EQUIST) has supported policymakers in identifying and prioritizing interventions that address disparities in maternal and child health outcomes [8]. The World Health Organization continues to advocate for decentralized, community-based healthcare delivery models and gender-responsive health systems that prioritize the needs of women and girls [3]. At the same time, partnerships leveraging digital innovation are opening new pathways for service delivery, although these must be intentionally designed to close, rather than widen, existing gender gaps.

Despite these efforts, progress remains uneven, and much more needs to be done. Advancing equitable access to primary healthcare for women and girls requires sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and underserved areas, alongside expanded health insurance coverage to reduce financial hardship. It demands policies that actively challenge gender inequality and empower women to make informed decisions about their health. Strengthening community health systems, improving health education, and ensuring inclusive governance with women represented in leadership and decision-making processes are equally critical.

Equitable access to primary healthcare is not just a health issue; it is a matter of justice, dignity, and human rights. No woman should die while giving life, and no girl should be denied access to care because of poverty, distance, or discrimination. The time to act is now. Governments, civil society organizations, and development partners must intensify efforts to dismantle barriers, invest in inclusive systems, and prioritize women and girls in health policies and programs. By doing so, we can build a future where every woman and every girl can live a healthy, empowered life.

References

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_Nigeria
[2] https://articles.nigeriahealthwatch.com/iwd2025-accelerating-womens-access-to-quality-care-for-improved-maternal-outcomes/
[3] https://www.afro.who.int/sites/default/files/2017-06/report-of-the-commission-on-womens-health-in-the-african-region—chapter-6.pdf
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7934485/
[5] https://gatesopenresearch-files.f1000.com/posters/docs/gatesopenres-208586.pdf
[6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Primary_Health_Care_Development_Agency_%28Nigeria%29
[7] https://womeningh.org/the-road-to-uhc-passes-through-gender-responsive-health-systems-the-case-of-wgh-nigeria/
[8] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7046112/                                                                              [9] https://www.cfhinitiative.org/news/promoting-maternal-nutrition-through-food-demonstration-at-adamawa-phc/

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Gender Inequality: A Threat to the Health, Safety, and Rights of Women and Girls in Nigeria

Community Development, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, International Day of Rural Women, Mental Health, Monday Health Burst, Reproductive Health, SDG, Speak Wednesday, Special Events, Stop FGM, Uncategorized, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women in Leadership, Women's Rights /

Gender inequality remains a deeply entrenched threat to the health, safety, and rights of women and girls in Nigeria, undermining progress toward equitable development and directly shaping outcomes in health, education, economic participation, political representation, and freedom from violence. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Nigeria ranks 147 out of 191 countries on the Gender Inequality Index, reflecting large disparities between men and women in reproductive health, empowerment, and labour market participation. ¹ These inequalities manifest in real and measurable ways that compromise the wellbeing and opportunities of women and girls across the country.

One of the most profound impacts of gender inequality in Nigeria is observed in health outcomes. The maternal mortality ratio remains unacceptably high at 512 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, indicating that women are still at disproportionate risk during pregnancy and childbirth compared to global averages. ² Factors driving this include limited access to quality reproductive health services, lack of autonomy in health decision-making, and economic barriers that delay care-seeking. Research shows that women who lack financial independence or decision-making power are less likely to utilise antenatal care or deliver in health facilities, increasing the likelihood of preventable complications. ³

Education is another field deeply affected by gender inequality. UNESCO reports that girls’ school completion rates in Nigeria lag boys’, particularly at the secondary level, a gap that translates into reduced opportunities for advanced learning, better jobs, and informed health choices later in life. ⁴ Early marriage, still prevalent in many regions, significantly contributes to school dropout rates among girls. UNICEF estimates that 43% of girls in Nigeria are married before their 18th birthday, limiting educational attainment and exposing them to early pregnancy and increased health risks such as obstetric fistula and maternal mortality. ⁵

Gender-based violence (GBV) is another grave consequence of systemic inequality. The Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) reveals that around 30% of ever-married women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence, with many cases going unreported due to stigma, fear, and weak legal enforcement. ⁶ Violence affects not only physical health but also leads to long-term psychological trauma, increased vulnerability to HIV infection, and reduced participation in economic and community life. ⁷

Political inequality further illustrates the scale of exclusion. In the current 10th National Assembly (2023–2027), women remain severely underrepresented in national decision-making. Out of 109 Senate seats, only 4 are held by women (approximately 3.7%), while 105 seats (96.3%) are held by men. In the House of Representatives, only 17 out of 360 seats are occupied by women (approximately 4.7%), compared to 343 men. Altogether, women hold just 21 out of 469 seats in the National Assembly, representing about 4.2% of federal lawmakers.¹⁰ This means that despite women making up nearly half of Nigeria’s population, their voice in shaping laws and policies that directly affect their health, safety, and rights remains below 5% — one of the lowest representation rates in the region.¹¹ Limited political participation restricts the advancement of gender-responsive policies and slows progress on critical issues such as maternal health funding, protection from violence, and equal economic opportunities.

Economic inequality further compounds these threats. Although women actively participate in Nigeria’s labour force, wage gaps, informal employment, and occupational segregation persist. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report highlights that women often earn less than men for similar work and remain underrepresented in leadership positions. ⁸ Without economic empowerment, many women are unable to afford essential health services, invest in their education, or break cycles of poverty and dependency.

These disparities are not inevitable; they are shaped by social norms, discriminatory practices, and gaps in policy implementation. Research consistently shows that gender-responsive policies including universal access to reproductive healthcare, enforcement of laws against child marriage, protection from gender-based violence, equal educational opportunities, and increased political inclusion significantly improve health, economic, and social outcomes. ⁹

Addressing gender inequality is therefore not only a moral obligation but also a public health, governance, and economic priority. When women and girls have equal access to education, healthcare, leadership opportunities, and economic resources, maternal and infant mortality decline, household incomes rise, communities become safer, and national development accelerates. Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable development while half of its population remains structurally disadvantaged.

We call on the Federal and State Governments to strengthen and fully enforce laws protecting women and girls from discrimination and violence, expand access to quality healthcare services, promote girls’ education, and implement affirmative measures to increase women’s political representation. Development partners, civil society, and community leaders must intensify advocacy, scale up gender-responsive programming, and challenge harmful norms that sustain inequality. Every sector health, education, justice, governance, and economic development must mainstream gender equity as a foundational principle. The health, safety, and rights of Nigeria’s women and girls demand bold, sustained, and collective action.

References

  1. UNDP Gender Inequality Index
    https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/thematic-composite-indices/gender-inequality-index
  2. WHO Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000–2023
    https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240068759
  3. Journal of Women’s Health – Decision-Making Power & Maternal Service Utilisation
    https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jwh.2020.8805
  4. UNESCO Institute for Statistics – Girls’ Education
    https://uis.unesco.org/en/topic/girls-education
  5. UNICEF – Child Marriage in Nigeria
    https://data.unicef.org/topic/child-protection/child-marriage/
  6. Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS)
    https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR379/FR379.pdf
  7. WHO – Violence Against Women Prevalence Estimates
    https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240022256
  8. World Economic Forum – Global Gender Gap Report 2023
    https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GGGR_2023.pdf
  9. Journal of Gender & Development – Gender-Responsive Policies
    https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13552074.2021.1952743
  10. The Nation Newspaper – Women in the 10th National Assembly
    https://thenationonlineng.net/meet-the-only-four-female-senators-in-10th-nass/
  11. The Guardian Nigeria – Women’s Representation in N’Assembly
    https://guardian.ng/news/national/only-4-5-of-nassembly-members-are-women-says-wilan-report/

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Maternal Health – Access to Care

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Nigeria’s maternal health landscape continues to reveal stark inequalities that jeopardize the lives of women and newborns, particularly in underserved states like Adamawa and Zamfara. Despite global and national efforts to improve maternal survival, access to essential care remains limited for millions of women across the country. Research shows that utilisation of maternal healthcare services including antenatal care, skilled delivery, and postnatal care is persistently low, with only about 52% of women attending at least four antenatal visits, 38% delivering in health facilities, and about 37% receiving postnatal care. These gaps contribute directly to preventable complications and deaths during pregnancy and childbirth. ¹

According to the 2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), while antenatal care coverage has improved to 63%, only 46% of births are attended by skilled health personnel, leaving more than half of Nigerian mothers vulnerable during their most critical hour.² The stakes are staggering; a woman in Nigeria faces a 1 in 19 lifetime risk of dying during pregnancy or childbirth, compared to 1 in 4,900 in high-income countries.³ Despite these daunting statistics, recent government reports from the 2025 Joint Annual Review indicate a 17% reduction in maternal deaths across high-burden areas, driven largely by initiatives like the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII), which facilitated over 4,000 free Cesarean sections and revitalized 435 health facilities within one year.⁴

At the heart of this changing landscape is the work of the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) through the BIRTH Project (Building Innovative Responses to Transform Healthcare), currently being implemented in Adamawa State and Zamfara State. In these regions, where geographical, financial, and systemic barriers often stand between a mother and survival, CFHI’s interventions are providing practical and life-saving solutions to improve access to skilled maternal care.

In Adamawa State, CFHI strengthened the Rumde Primary Health Care Centre in Yola North by installing a solar-powered birth suitcase, ensuring uninterrupted delivery services even in the absence of stable electricity. The intervention has become the primary source of light during childbirth in the facility, enabling safe deliveries at all hours. Beyond the health facility, the project promotes maternal wellbeing through community-led nutrition demonstrations aimed at preventing maternal anemia, a condition responsible for a significant proportion of pregnancy-related complications worldwide³.

In Zamfara State, where facility-based delivery rates have historically been low, similar solar-powered birth kits were installed at facilities such as Shagari Primary Health Centre, improving nighttime emergency response and increasing community confidence in the health system. However, the BIRTH Project goes beyond the provision of equipment. It directly addresses the five delays identified under the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII).

The consequences of poor access are not only clinical but social and economic. Women who cannot reach care in time often resort to unskilled birth attendants or home deliveries, increasing the likelihood of complications and long-term disability. National analyses show that financial constraints, distance to facilities, and perceived poor quality of care are major determinants of home births, even among women who attend antenatal care. ⁶ Beyond these structural issues, cultural norms and limited decision-making autonomy further restrict women’s ability to seek timely and appropriate maternal healthcare.

To transform maternal health outcomes in Nigeria with Adamawa and Zamfara as case studies sustained investment is required in strengthening primary healthcare systems, expanding referral networks, improving emergency transport, and increasing the availability of skilled health workers trained in emergency obstetric and newborn care. Governments, donors, and civil society must work together to remove financial barriers, improve transportation systems, and empower women socially and economically so that no woman is forced to choose between distance and survival.

CFHI’s ongoing MNCH interventions demonstrate that progress is possible when communities are engaged, health systems are supported, and maternal care is prioritized. The task ahead is to scale these efforts with urgency, political commitment, and adequate funding to ensure that every pregnancy is safe, and every mother survives childbirth.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

 

References

  1. National Library of Medicine (PMC). Determinants of maternal healthcare service utilization in Nigeria.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC
  2. National Population Commission (NPC) Nigeria and ICF. Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey 2024 (Key Indicators Report).
    https://dhsprogram.com
  3. World Health Organization (WHO). Trends in Maternal Mortality 2000–2023.
    https://www.who.int/publications
  4. Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria. 2025 Joint Annual Review Report & MAMII Initiative Update.
    https://health.gov.ng
  5. National Library of Medicine (PubMed). Barriers to facility-based delivery after antenatal care attendance in Nigeria.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

 

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The Role of Families and Communities in Preventing FGM

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In the landscape of global health in 2026, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) stands as one of the most persistent violations of human rights, yet the tide is beginning to turn through sophisticated, community-led interventions. As of this year, over 230 million women and girls alive today have undergone the procedure, and UNICEF projects that 4.5 million more remain at risk in 2026 alone [1]. The struggle to end this practice is no longer just a legal battle; it has evolved into a deep-rooted cultural shift focusing on the intersection of family protection and communal health [4].

The prevention of FGM begins at the heart of the home, where families are being empowered to dismantle the “social obligation” myth. Recent research from the UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme indicates that when mothers are provided with formal education and economic agency, the likelihood of their daughters being cut drops significantly [3]. Families are now being reached through “Positive Masculinity” programs, where over 800,000 men and boys have pledged to protect their female relatives, challenging the outdated notion that FGM is a prerequisite for marriageability [3]. By addressing the family as the primary decision-making unit, advocacy groups are successfully replacing fear of social exclusion with a shared commitment to a daughter’s physical integrity and future health.

Moving beyond the front door, the most effective preventative measure in 2026 has been the rise of Public Declarations of Abandonment within local communities. This collective approach shifts the “social contract,” ensuring that no single family feels isolated in their choice to stop the practice. Many regions have successfully implemented Alternative Rites of Passage (ARP), which preserve the cultural celebration of womanhood through education, mentorship, and gifts minus the physical harm. This allows communities to maintain their rich heritage while evolving their health standards. Simultaneously, health systems are closing the gap on “medicalization” the dangerous trend of health professionals performing the cut. The World Health Organization has recently tightened codes of conduct, training midwives and doctors to serve as the first line of defense, educating parents on the $1.4 billion annual global cost of treating FGM-related complications, ranging from obstetric hemorrhage to lifelong psychological trauma [2].

To ensure these gains are permanent, a robust network of local surveillance and cross-border cooperation has emerged. In 2026, over 3,200 communities have established “watchdog” groups that monitor girls during school holidays, a peak time for the practice [3]. These grassroots efforts, supported by national laws that criminalize “vacation cutting,” create a safety net that follows a girl from her village to the city and beyond. The data proves that this holistic approach works; for every dollar invested in these prevention measures, there is a tenfold return in health savings and economic productivity [2]. By weaving together, the strength of the family unit with the collective will of the community, we are finally moving toward a world where every girl can grow up whole, healthy, and empowered.

Call to Action

The end of FGM is within our reach, but it requires your voice and your action. You can make a difference today:

  • Educate and Advocate: Share the facts about the health risks of FGM within your social circles. Silence is where the practice thrives.
  • Support Grassroots Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with local NGOs that facilitate Alternative Rites of Passage and provide education to at-risk families.
  • Report Risk: If you know a girl is at risk of being subjected to FGM, contact local child protection services or international helplines immediately.
  • Engage Men and Boys: Start conversations with the men in your community about the importance of protecting the rights and health of women and girls.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

References

  • UNICEF Data (2025/2026): FGM Prevalence and Statistics
  • WHO Global Health Update: The Cost of FGM and Prevention Strategies
  • UNFPA 2025 Annual Report: Eliminating FGM through Community Action
  • United Nations: International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM

 

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Creating a Safe Environment for Girls in Schools and Communities.

Child Trafficking, ChildNotBride, Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Mental Health, Postpartum Depression, Reproductive Health, Speak Wednesday, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women in Leadership, Women's Rights /

Creating a safe environment for girls in schools and communities is not a luxury; it is a necessity for national growth, justice, and human dignity. When a girl walks into a classroom, she should be thinking about her lessons and dreams not about fear. Yet for millions of girls around the world, safety is not guaranteed. According to the Malala Fund State of Girls’ Education Report, more than 120 million girls globally are out of school, with insecurity, poverty, and gender discrimination among the leading causes (Malala Fund, 2023). Behind these numbers are real girls whose futures are delayed or permanently disrupted.

Nigeria reflects this global crisis in painful ways. Data from UNICEF shows that Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in the world estimated at over 18 million with girls disproportionately affected in conflict-affected regions (UNICEF Nigeria, 2023). The abduction of schoolgirls from Chibok in 2014 drew global outrage, yet attacks on schools have continued in parts of Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, and Sokoto States. Recent education security reporting highlights ongoing threats and forced withdrawals of girls from school due to fear of violence. (See UNICEF Press Release on education safety.)

Violence is not only external. Research by Plan International shows that many girls experience harassment, bullying, or sexual violence within school environments, often from peers or authority figures. Such incidents frequently go unreported due to stigma and weak reporting mechanisms (Plan International, 2022). When girls feel unsafe in school, attendance drops and dropout rates increase. According to UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report, school-related gender-based violence significantly affects learning outcomes and contributes to early school leaving (UNESCO, 2023).

Infrastructure gaps also contribute to insecurity. Thousands of schools in Nigeria lack perimeter fencing, security personnel, and adequate lighting, making them vulnerable to intrusion, theft, and attacks (Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Report, 2024). Beyond physical security, access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities is essential. The WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme reports that inadequate sanitation disproportionately affects adolescent girls, especially during menstruation, leading to absenteeism and reduced participation (WHO/UNICEF JMP Report, 2023).

Community norms further shape girls’ vulnerability. According to UN Women, harmful gender norms, early marriage, and tolerance of violence increase girls’ risk of dropping out and experiencing abuse. In areas with high gender inequality, girls face restricted mobility and limited decision-making power, undermining their educational continuity and safety (UN Women, 2023).

Creating safer environments therefore requires coordinated action. Governments must strengthen school security architecture, implement early warning systems, and enforce child protection policies. Schools should adopt safeguarding frameworks and confidential reporting systems. Communities must challenge harmful norms and actively support girls’ education. Civil society organizations should be supported to expand advocacy, mentorship, and survivor support services.

Ensuring safety for girls is not simply about protection it is about possibility. When girls learn in secure environments, they are more likely to complete their education, participate in the workforce, delay early marriage, and contribute to economic growth. Safety forms the bedrock of confidence and achievement. If development is truly our goal, then protecting girls in schools and communities must be our shared responsibility.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-base violence and gender-bias.

References

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Families as Frontline Defenders Against Harmful Practices.

Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Mental Health, Monday Health Burst, Reproductive Health, Women Education, Women in Leadership, Women's Rights /

Across the world, harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage continue to violate the rights, health, and futures of millions of girls and young women, often entrenched in patriarchal norms and social pressures. UNICEF estimates that at least 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, and over 12 million girls are married before age 18 every year, both of which are rooted in gender inequality and harmful social norms upheld at the family and community level. These practices not only harm physical and psychological wellbeing but also constrain girls’ access to education, livelihoods, and basic human rights. (UNICEF)

Families are not merely passive bystanders in this landscape they can be frontline defenders against harmful practices. Research shows that families influence health behavior, decision-making, and wellbeing from early life through adolescence and adulthood, making them invaluable actors in preventing and countering abuse and discrimination. Family-oriented health promotion strategies have been found to be effective in reducing child maltreatment and strengthening protective factors by enhancing parenting practices, social support, and overall family wellbeing. (PubMed)

In many communities where harmful practices like FGM and child marriage persist, decision making often occurs within the household, with parents, extended family members, and elders shaping whether girls are subjected to such rites. In parts of sub-Saharan Africa, families fear social ostracism and harm to a girl’s “marriage prospects” if she is not cut or married early beliefs that are enforced by elders and community expectations. This social pressure persists even where awareness of harm is increasing, illustrating how deeply family influence and social norms are intertwined. (acrl-rfp.org) In Mali, for example, prevalence rates of FGM remain high only dropping from 91% to 89% over two decades underscoring that legal change alone is insufficient without deep shifts in family and community norms. (ODI: Think change)

However, when families act as agents of change rather than enforcers of harmful norms, progress is possible. In Sudan in 2025, community committees that included family members mobilized against an FGM practitioner’s arrival, stopping the practice in its tracks, and demonstrating the power of collective family and community action to protect children. This local action, grounded in awareness about health risks and legal protections, helped shift attitudes and strengthen community resistance against harmful practices. (UNICEF)

Education is another critical lever. Families that value girls’ schooling and future potential are more likely to delay or abandon harmful practices, recognizing the long-term benefits of learning and opportunity. Research from UNICEF indicates that education can shift attitudes and reduce the transmission of harmful practices across generations, as families who understand the risks and benefits are better positioned to protect their daughters. (UNICEF DATA)

Promoting family engagement as a public health strategy also aligns with broader efforts to prevent violence and abuse. Evidence shows that family-based interventions reduce harmful behaviors such as bullying among children and adolescents by improving parenting, communication, and protective supervision. These family systems create environments where children feel supported, informed, and safer, reducing the likelihood of various forms of harm. (SpringerLink)

Yet meaningful change requires more than individual awareness it requires collective, sustained action that equips families with knowledge, resources, and support to challenge harmful norms. Governments, civil society, health systems, and community leaders must invest in education, legal protections, economic opportunities, and culturally appropriate outreach that reinforces families as protectors rather than perpetuators of harmful practices. As one advocate puts it, “Families who understand the suffering these practices cause is increasingly willing to resist, one conversation at a time.” (UNICEF)

Call to Action: Ending harmful practices such as FGM and child marriage depends on empowering families with evidence, support, and tools to reject harmful norms and champion girls’ rights. Invest in family-focused education and prevention, strengthen community support networks, involve elders and parents in advocacy, and ensure every girl’s health, education, and dignity are protected.

References

Families as Frontline Defenders Against Harmful Practices. Read More »

Gender-Bias Sustains Violence Against Girls

Community Development, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Speak Wednesday, Special Events, Stop FGM, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women in Leadership /

Across the globe, gender bias fuels and sustains violence against girls, shaping social norms that devalue their rights, safety, and dignity. Gender bias refers to the systemic prejudice that privileges one gender over another, embedding harmful beliefs about power, control, and worth. These biases are not abstract they manifest in everyday interactions, institutional policies, cultural practices, and legal frameworks that indirectly condone or fail to protect girls from violence and discrimination. Gender bias is a root cause of many forms of gender-based violence, contributing to a world where nearly 1 in 3 women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, most often from intimate partners or family members. This stark reality reflects deep-seated inequalities and underscores how societal norms around gender perpetuate violence rather than prevent it. (UN Women Knowledge hub)

Gender bias does not only drive overt acts of violence; it also grows through socialization and cultural messaging that position girls as subordinate or less valuable. In many communities, girls are more likely to face early marriage with 1 in 5 women aged 20–24 first married before age 18 a practice rooted in beliefs that girls need male guardianship and are better suited to domestic roles than education or economic participation. These harmful norms create environments where violence against girls is tolerated or overlooked, and where girls themselves may internalize messages that diminish their sense of self-worth and agency. (violenceagainstchildren.un.org)

The consequences of violence sustained by gender bias are severe and far-reaching. Beyond physical injuries, girls and young women who experience violence are at greater risk of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, unintended pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections. The psychological impact can hinder education, employment, and social participation, trapping survivors in cycles of marginalization. When legal systems, communities, and institutions fail to protect girls or address the bias that underpins violence, they perpetuate impunity and signal that girls’ safety is negotiable rather than a human right. (UN Women Knowledge hub)

Efforts to combat gender-based violence must therefore confront the gender bias that sustains it. This means challenging societal norms that excuse controlling behaviour, silence survivors, or blame victims for the harm inflicted upon them. It requires that governments strengthen legal protections, enforce laws that criminalize domestic and sexual violence, and ensure survivors have access to justice and support services. It also means investing in community education that promotes gender equality, respectful relationships, and non-violent conflict resolution. Addressing gender bias is central to dismantling the conditions that allow violence against girls to persist. (UN Women Knowledge hub)

True change demands collective action from families, teachers, health workers, policymakers, and young people themselves to build cultures that respect girls’ autonomy, voices, and contributions. Eliminating violence against girls is not simply a matter of responding to individual incidents; it is a long-term effort to transform the biases that place girls at risk in the first place. Communities that challenge harmful gender norms and promote equality create safer, healthier, and more just environments for all children and future generations.

Call to action: Governments, civil society, community leaders, educators, and individuals must work together to replace harmful gender stereotypes with norms that respect human rights and dignity. Strengthening legal frameworks, investing in prevention programmes, supporting survivors, and promoting gender-equal education are essential steps toward a future where girls can live free from violence and realize their full potential.

References

• UN Special Representative on Violence Against Children: Girls
https://violenceagainstchildren.un.org/content/girls (violenceagainstchildren.un.org

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Female Genital Mutilation as Gender-Based Violence: A Violation of Girls’ Rights

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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice and a clear form of gender-based violence that fundamentally violates the human rights of girls and women. The World Health Organization defines FGM as all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons (1). The practice has no health benefits and causes lifelong harm, violating girls’ rights to health, bodily integrity, security, and freedom from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment (1).

Globally, more than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM, spanning at least 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia (1). Each year, an estimated 4 million additional girls remain at risk, most of them under the age of 15, highlighting the urgent need for accelerated action (1). These figures reflect not isolated incidents, but a sustained pattern of violence rooted in gender inequality.

FGM persists primarily because of unequal power relations and entrenched social norms that subordinate girls and women. In many communities, the practice is falsely justified as a cultural rite of passage, a prerequisite for marriage, or a means of controlling female sexuality. These beliefs reinforce the notion that girls’ bodies are subject to communal control rather than individual rights, a hallmark of gender-based violence (2).

FGM remains most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, with some of the highest rates recorded in Somalia (approximately 99%), Guinea (94.5%), and Djibouti (93%) among women aged 15–49 (3). In Nigeria, an estimated 19.9 million girls and women have undergone FGM, making it one of the countries with the highest absolute number of survivors globally (4). Prevalence varies significantly across regions, with higher rates reported in the South-East and South-West, including states such as Imo, where prevalence exceeds 60% in some communities (4). These statistics underscore how deeply embedded the practice remains at both national and sub-national levels.

As a form of violence, FGM is typically carried out without informed consent, often during childhood, and results in enduring physical, psychological, and social harm. Survivors frequently report anxiety, emotional distress, reduced self-esteem, and loss of bodily autonomy, which can persist throughout adulthood (5). The trauma associated with the experience often affects girls’ confidence, participation in education, and ability to form healthy relationships later in life.

Beyond psychological harm, FGM has serious implications for sexual and reproductive health. It increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity, and places additional strain on already fragile health systems in low-resource settings (1). These consequences further affirm why FGM is recognized globally as both a public health crisis and a human rights violation.

Recognizing its severity, the international community has committed to eliminating FGM under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 5.3, with a global target year of 2030 (5). Agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have led coordinated efforts focusing on legal reform, community engagement, survivor-centred health services, and prevention strategies that challenge harmful gender norms (6).

At the national level, progress has been uneven. In countries like Somalia, WHO and partners have supported health system reforms, professional training, and community-based interventions to address both FGM and broader gender-based violence (7). In Nigeria, UNICEF has supported community-led abandonment initiatives in high-prevalence states, mobilizing local leaders, families, and youth to protect girls at risk and shift social norms (4).

The impact of FGM on confidence and well-being cannot be overstated. Many survivors live with lasting psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress, fear, and diminished self-worth, which influence education, employment, and social participation (5). These invisible scars are often overlooked, yet they shape the life chances of millions of women and girls.

Ending FGM requires decisive, multi-level action. Governments must strengthen and enforce laws that criminalize the practice. Communities must be supported to challenge harmful norms through dialogue and education. Health systems must provide survivor-centred care, including mental health services. Men and boys must be engaged as allies in promoting gender equality, while robust data systems are needed to monitor progress and guide policy decisions. Only through sustained, coordinated action can FGM be eliminated, and girls’ rights fully protected.

FGM is not culture it is violence. Ending it is not optional; it is an urgent moral, public health, and human rights imperative.

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Female Genital Mutilation.
    https://www.who.int/health-topics/female-genital-mutilation
  2. WHO Regional Office for Africa. Female Genital Mutilation.
    https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/female-genital-mutilation
  3. UNICEF. New Statistical Report on Female Genital Mutilation.
    https://www.unicef.org/png/press-releases/new-statistical-report-female-genital-mutilation-shows-harmful-practice-global
  4. UNICEF Nigeria. FGM on the Rise Among Young Nigerian Girls.
    https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/press-releases/unicef-warns-fgm-rise-among-young-nigerian-girls
  5. UNICEF DATA. Female Genital Mutilation Statistics.
    https://data.unicef.org/topic/gender/fgm/
  6. World Health Organization. New Recommendations to End Medicalized FGM.
    https://www.who.int/news/item/28-04-2025-who-issues-new-recommendations-to-end-the-rise-in–medicalized–female-genital-mutilation-and-support-survivors
  7. World Health Organization. Addressing FGM and GBV in Somalia.
    https://www.who.int/about/accountability/results/who-results-report-2020-mtr/country-story/2023/improving-maternal-health-outcomes-by-addressing-female-genital-mutilation-and-gender-based-violence-in-somalia

 

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