A UNFPA African Regional Violence Against Women Prevention and Response Strategy Development Workshop was held from 21-25 September 2009 in Windhoek, Namibia.
The UNFPA organized five days workshop in collaboration with its partners to develop a Regional Prevention and Response Strategy on Violence Against Women.
Among those who participated in the forum was Dr. Isatou Touray Executive Director, Gambia Committee on Traditional Practices GAMCOTRAP.
According to her, violence against women is a violation of human rights. African States are committed to protect and prevent violence against women through legislation and enforcement of laws.
Also, NGOs and Civil Society Organizations are called upon to engage in advocacy to eliminate violence against women in communities to protect women and girls. The workshop brought together government officials, gender experts and advisers working with UNFPA from 20 countries in Africa including The Gambia who have been working on Violence Against Women at different levels. They shared information and experiences on violence the situation of violence against women in their various contexts, working with governments, non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations.
In a review of the situation in Africa, the workshop provided an opportunity for participants with diverse experiences to exchange knowledge, best practices and research information and various aspect of Violence Against Women, these ranged from physical, Sexual and psychological Health and Rights of women in Africa.
Experts presented on their various country contexts, implementation strategies and activities to address Violence Against Women. They also shared results, achievements as well as the challenges and suggested strategies for the way forward.
The workshop also stressed the need for support and political will from UNFPA Africa Regional Office and this was reflected in the speeches and commitments made to give the full attention to the outcomes of the Regional Strategy on violence against women.
