The Reconnect Health Initiative has solicited the support of the Benue State Government in implementing a project to address mental health challenges, gender-based violence (GBV) and promote women’s economic empowerment.

The organisation’s Programme Leader, Shadrach Annor, made the appeal on Thursday during a courtesy call to the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in Makurdi.

Mr Annor said the initiative would focus on mental health and GBV interventions, while the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystems (GIFSEP), its implementing partner, would handle the social strengthening and livelihood component.

He explained that the livelihood aspect of the project was aimed at tackling some of the factors contributing to GBV by supporting women to become financially independent.

The programme leader said the organisation would engage relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) through advocacy visits to strengthen the protection of women and girls in the state.

He disclosed that plans were underway to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Benue Ministry of Health and Human Services, adding that key partners, including Christian Blind Mission (CBM), the project sponsor, were expected to participate in the process.

Mr Annor said the project would also support the implementation of policies and laws relating to GBV, mental health, disability rights and the Violence against Persons (Prohibition) Law.

He added that facilitators would be trained to provide mental health and psychosocial support services to survivors of GBV.

According to him, the pilot intervention will be implemented in Katsina-Ala, Makurdi and Oju local government areas, covering 10 communities across the three senatorial districts of the state.

He said selected primary health care centres would serve as referral points for protection services, shelter, healthcare and legal support.

Mr Annor said the project was designed to run for one year and six months.

The state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Theresa Ikwue, commended the initiative and assured the organisation of the ministry’s support.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Martha Edor, the commissioner said the state government remained committed to creating an enabling environment for development partners.

She urged the organisation and its partners to maintain close collaboration with the ministry to ensure the success of the intervention.

Mr Annor explained that the benefiting local government areas were selected after a baseline survey conducted in 10 local government areas, with Katsina-Ala, Makurdi and Oju chosen based on identified needs. 

(NAN)