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By Ginaba Lino
Women in Yambio County are courageously breaking their silence on gender-based violence (GBV), sharing personal experiences and calling for urgent community action to end abuse.
With support from UNICEF, EVE Organization for Women Development conducted community awareness sessions on February 16, 2026, aimed at preventing GBV and addressing the root causes of physical and sexual violence. The sessions were facilitated by Victoria Woduapia, a GBV Social Worker at EVE Organization.
Speaking during discussions at Yambio Primary Health Care Center, women highlighted rising cases of sexual violence in schools and the long-term impact on adolescent girls ranging from fear and trauma to school dropouts. Participants urged teachers and school administrators to take stronger responsibility in safeguarding students and ensuring safe learning environments.
In Gangara Emilia, located in the western part of Yambio town, community members identified alcohol abuse, poor communication, and unresolved household conflicts as key drivers of violence against women and girls. Participants emphasized the importance of patience, forgiveness, and respectful dialogue in preventing domestic disputes from escalating.
“These conversations are helping communities recognize that violence is not a private issue it is a social crisis that destroys families and futures,” Victoria Woduapia, the GBV Social Worker facilitating the sessions.
Through the initiative, EVE Organization is strengthening community-based prevention mechanisms and empowering local leaders to champion women’s rights and protection. Organizers say the effort is part of a broader strategy to build safer