By Admin_TRIMING
Posted on 14 February 2025
The TRIMING GBV (Gender-Based Violence) Unit is mandated to address, prevent, and respond to gender-based violence within the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) Project.
In the heart of rural Nigeria, where traditional norms often define the roles and expectations of women, a quiet transformation is taking place. Hajara Nuhu, a determined woman leader in her community, recounts how the TRIMING Project became a beacon of hope, empowering women with knowledge and skills previously beyond their reach. Once reliant on external processors, she and her peers have now mastered the art of rice processing, turning their agricultural yield into a source of economic independence. The project not only imparted technical skills but also instilled a sense of confidence and self-reliance, enabling these women to uplift their families and share their knowledge with others.
Similarly, the Dadin Kowa Irrigation Water Users’ Association has witnessed a remarkable shift in societal attitudes towards Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Prior to the intervention of the TRIMING Project, awareness of GBV was scarce, and victims often suffered in silence. However, with targeted training and sensitisation, the community has learned to identify, address, and prevent GBV. The establishment of referral pathways, psychological support systems, and legal aid has significantly improved the safety and well-being of survivors. The collective effort of local leaders, security personnel, and healthcare providers has fostered an environment where justice prevails, and survivors regain their dignity. This transformation stands as a testament to the power of education, advocacy, and community-driven change.
Below are some testimonies from beneficiaries from the field across the TRIMING Project schemes on the achievement of TRIMING Project GBV unit.
Hajara Nuhu, Woman Leader, Mai ‘Iyali Rayi (MVIS)
This account was provided by Hajara Nuhu, a respected woman leader in her community. She expressed her gratitude for the TRIMING Project, highlighting the significant benefits it has brought to her and other women. “Our first training session took place in Niger, where we were taught various rice-based production techniques, including flour, milk, biscuits, chinchin, and pankasau,” she recalled. The project has equipped them with the skills to process their rice harvests independently, eliminating the need to seek external processors. “Now, when we harvest our rice, we no longer have to search for someone to process it—we do it ourselves,” she added proudly.
Hajara also emphasised how the knowledge gained through TRIMING has been passed on to others in the community, including their children. With a deep sense of appreciation, she recounted how they were trained to repurpose rice husks as an alternative to firewood, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. “Alhamdulillah, TRIMING has lifted us from poverty and given us the opportunity to transform our lives. We were once struggling, but now we are independent and self-sufficient. If you saw us working in our fields from a distance, you might assume we were men—but upon closer look, you’d realise we are women, thriving in our own farm work,” she said enthusiastically. She further confirmed that the programme has granted them newfound freedom and self-reliance, and they are now eager to teach others who show interest.
Dadin Kowa Irrigation Water Users’ Association – GBV Response
Muhammad Sani Hassan, Secretary of the Apex WUA, shared insights into the transformative impact of the TRIMING Project’s GBV awareness initiatives. “Before TRIMING introduced the GBV project to our community, we were completely unaware of the issue and the necessary referral pathways. However, through their intervention, we have acquired essential knowledge and skills to support survivors,” he explained. The training covered crucial aspects such as ensuring the safety of survivors, facilitating access to recognised health facilities for medical attention, providing psychological support, and offering safe shelters when necessary. Additionally, they were educated on the importance of economic empowerment and legal aid for survivors.
Expressing his gratitude, Muhammad noted the significant reduction in GBV cases within the community. “Parents are now actively educating their children on personal safety and recognising forms of violence. This knowledge has been extended to young boys and girls, as well as adults and youth. As a result, we have seen a drastic decline in cases of GBV, sexual harassment, and assault,” he stated. To further safeguard the community, youth members have been mobilised into a vigilante group that patrols the irrigation areas and promptly reports any incidents to the GBV committee. This committee ensures that cases are resolved appropriately and that survivors receive necessary consultations and support. He concluded by extending his appreciation to TRIMING and gender-based violence specialist Mrs Ijeoma for their dedicated efforts.
Dauda Hudu, Vice Chairman, Apex Dadin Kowa Irrigation Scheme, Gombe State
Dauda Hudu expressed his sincere appreciation for TRIMING’s dedication to GBV training. “Prior to this project, we had no understanding of GBV or its impact on our community. Many people suffered violations without even realising they were victims. Now, we are the ones providing support, education, and counselling to others,” he stated. The community has embraced a culture of confidentiality and trust, ensuring that survivors feel safe when seeking help. “Unlike before, when people were too afraid to speak out due to stigma, they now come forward, and we ensure they receive justice,” he added. The referral pathways have streamlined the process of accessing healthcare and psychosocial support, leading to more effective case management and a stronger communal response to GBV.
Through engagements with traditional and community leaders, the team has received unwavering support, further strengthening their advocacy efforts. “Thanks to TRIMING, GBV cases have significantly reduced in our community,” Dauda affirmed.
Idris Shehu Kuje, DKIS Apex Chairman, Dadin Kowa, Gombe State
Idris Shehu Kuje recounted how TRIMING’s intervention opened their eyes to the prevalence of GBV. “Initially, we believed GBV was not an issue in our community—until we started investigating and discovered numerous past and present cases. That was when we took immediate action, applying the knowledge gained through TRIMING’s training,” he explained. The community now proactively identifies perpetrators within various sectors, including workplaces, markets, and schools, ensuring that abusers are held accountable.
The greatest achievement, he noted, is that people now feel empowered to report cases, knowing they will receive support and protection. “Previously, victims would remain silent, fearing societal backlash. Now, with structured referral pathways and legal backing, perpetrators face justice. Even traditional leaders, who once hesitated to intervene, now take active roles in ensuring accountability,” he said. The firm stance against GBV has deterred potential offenders, making the community a safer place for all.
Musa Ilyasu, Hadeja Valley Irrigation Scheme
Musa Ilyasu highlighted the proactive approach taken post-training, including sensitisation efforts led by religious and community leaders. “Imams now incorporate GBV awareness into their sermons, and women working in nearby villages are educated about their rights and the importance of reporting abuse,” he stated. Vigilante patrols have been set up, leading to a significant drop in GBV cases. “In the past few months, we have recorded fewer than three cases, a drastic improvement,” he added. Community members no longer feel ashamed to report incidents, and perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
The TRIMING Project’s impact continues to resonate across these communities, instilling a culture of empowerment, accountability, and resilience. These success stories exemplify how education, collaboration, and advocacy can create lasting change, ensuring a safer and more just society for all.
SUCCESS STORY: BY BABANGIDA HAMIDU GADA, GENERAL HOSPITAL GADA, SOKOTO
A woman was brought to our health facility, one of the GBV service providers in the state. She tested HIV-positive as a result of being a kidnapping and rape survivor. Her husband and his other wives tested negative. We provided them with effective counselling and administered the necessary treatment and prophylactic drugs.
One month later, we conducted a follow-up to assess progress and identify any side effects. Unfortunately, we found that her husband was maltreating her, providing no support or food, and even intending to divorce her. Together with our GBV team, we engaged the husband in a discussion, offered advice, and connected them with the Society for Family Health to seek further assistance. Following this intervention, he assured us that he would remain with his wife for the rest of their lives. All information was handled with strict confidentiality.
HAJIYA RAMATU, WUA KURA
“We have nothing more to say than thank you to the TRIMING Project. Due to this programme, men who previously acted with impunity now hesitate, knowing that we will not allow them to escape justice. Survivors and their families now speak up immediately when incidents occur, enabling us to take swift action in transporting them to healthcare facilities and reporting to security agencies.
These agencies and healthcare providers now recognise us and understand the necessary procedures, as we have had meetings with them about GBV matters. The first cases we handled after our training involved young girls—one has already given birth, another is currently pregnant, and the third is a rape survivor. The girl who gave birth was initially stigmatised, but through awareness and education, we helped the community understand that these survivors deserve support, while perpetrators should face the law.
As a result, these girls have regained their self-esteem and resumed their normal lives. We even took steps to report the cases to the Civil Defence Corps, ensuring the perpetrators were arrested. They admitted their crimes and acknowledged the pregnancy and child. One survivor chose to marry the perpetrator, while the other did not. All three cases went to court, and justice was served. This programme has been of immense benefit to our community. Alhamdulillah.”
LAMI USMAN GANKI, WOMAN LEADER, DKIS DADIN KOWA
“Before this training, we were unaware that action could be taken against GBV and rape. This programme enlightened us and empowered us to take a stand.
One of the cases we handled involved a girl who was tricked into travelling from Dadin Kowa to another town, Onicha, under the pretext of marriage. A woman facilitated the arrangement between the girl and the boy. Rescuing the girl involved significant challenges, requiring collaboration with security personnel, community members, and leaders. Eventually, we succeeded in bringing her home safely. Unfortunately, we discovered she had been assaulted not only by the boy but also by two of his friends.
We ensured that the perpetrators were arrested and prosecuted, and the survivor received medical care and support. This training has been invaluable, and our community is reaping its benefits. Thank you.”
TALATU IDI BUNKURE, WOMAN LEADER, WUA
“Alhamdulillah, we have greatly benefited from this project, particularly in tackling GBV. Before this intervention, we were completely ignorant about GBV. We used to turn a blind eye to cases of rape, molestation, and abuse.
However, after attending several training sessions, we now understand the importance of speaking up and taking action. We are no longer afraid to get involved and encourage others to do the same. We now collaborate with healthcare and security agencies to handle cases while maintaining strict confidentiality for survivors. We ensure that perpetrators face legal consequences.
Although GBV cases have significantly decreased, we still receive some reports. With the support of the community, especially the youth, we swiftly identify and capture those responsible. Security agencies—including the vigilante group, Civil Defence Corps, police, community leaders, and other organisations—work together to ensure the safety of our people.
All thanks to Allah and the TRIMING Project. We were once living in ignorance, but now we see the light. Everyone is more vigilant due to the awareness we have spread. We educate parents and teachers, ensuring that this knowledge reaches farms and homes, and we are witnessing remarkable progress.”
BALKISU IBRAHIM (BIS)
- The incidence of rape has decreased due to sensitisation and awareness efforts, particularly among the less privileged, who are the most affected.
- Villagers now report rape cases when they occur.
- The weak and voiceless are now aware of their rights and demand justice due to GBV-GRM awareness.
- The most affected group—rice-threshing girls—now encourage their peers to fight for their rights.
- Parents actively cooperate with us by reporting cases of sexual harassment involving their children.
- Cases involving boys have also declined due to awareness campaigns targeted at them.
- We educate primary and secondary school students on how to protect themselves from sexual harassment.
- We encourage parents to develop close relationships with their children so that they feel safe reporting any issues rather than keeping them secret.
- We challenge and stop rape culture by discouraging jokes that trivialise sexual assault.
- We have established a mothers’ association programme.
- We include persons with disabilities in our outreach, and they fully cooperate with us.
- Hawkers are now engaged in our awareness programmes due to the high incidence of rape cases among them.
USMAN GARBA, FORMER WUA CHAIRMAN, BIS, AND TRIMING GBV AMBASSADOR
“Initially, we visited several villages to engage with women’s groups, youths, and other stakeholders, educating them on how to handle cases of abuse.
I recall a rape case where women from our team ensured the perpetrator was prosecuted while protecting the survivor from stigma and embarrassment. We also enlisted the support of Imams, urging them to address GBV issues in their Friday sermons. This yielded significant results.
Additionally, we assigned women in our team to visit households and educate families, including children. This strategy has contributed significantly to reducing GBV cases in our communities.
By implementing these measures and applying GBV-GRM techniques, we have successfully reduced and prevented GBV within our scheme.”
Conclusion
In general, the TRIMING Project’s interventions in GBV prevention, survivor support, and community engagement have transformed lives. Through continuous awareness, legal actions, and collaborative efforts, communities are now better equipped to fight GBV and protect the vulnerable.