Menstruation Is Not a Problem; Poor Menstrual Hygiene Is
At South Saharan Social Development Organization (SSDO), we are steadfast in our commitment to empowering women, youth, and children through education and good governance. A significant aspect of this mission involves addressing the challenges surrounding menstrual hygiene management – a critical yet often overlooked component of women’s health and well-being.
The Importance of Proper Menstrual Hygiene
Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by half of the world’s population. However, in many communities, it remains shrouded in stigma and misinformation, leading to inadequate menstrual hygiene practices. Poor menstrual hygiene can result in severe health issues, including infections and reproductive complications. Additionally, the societal taboos associated with menstruation can hinder women’s and girls’ participation in education and community activities, thereby limiting their opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The ‘Pad a Girl Child’ Initiative
South Saharan Social Development Organisation, in collaboration with the Enugu South Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Corps members, launched the “Pad a Girl Child” initiative. This program was designed to empower female students by providing them with essential knowledge about sexual and reproductive health and ensuring access to necessary menstrual hygiene products.
Educational Workshop
Understanding that education is the cornerstone of empowerment, our initiative commenced with comprehensive workshops aimed at demystifying menstruation. This session focused on educating the students about the menstrual cycle, its phases, and its role in the reproductive system. They also covered proper menstrual hygiene management, including the use of sanitary products, personal cleanliness, and safe disposal methods. Additionally, the workshop highlighted common menstrual-related health issues and emphasized the importance of seeking medical advice when necessary.
Distribution of Sanitary Pads
Access to sanitary products is a fundamental aspect of menstrual hygiene management. Recognizing that many girls miss school during their periods due to a lack of adequate supplies, we distributed sanitary pads to the participants. This effort sought to ensure that menstruation does not impede their educational pursuits or daily activities.
Challenging Societal Taboos
A core objective of the “Pad a Girl Child” initiative is to challenge and change the societal taboos associated with menstruation. By encouraging open discussions and providing accurate information, we strive to normalize menstruation as a natural aspect of life. Breaking these taboos is essential to fostering a supportive environment where women and girls can manage their menstrual health without fear of discrimination or embarrassment.
Menstruation itself is not a problem; the challenges arise from poor menstrual hygiene and the societal stigmas that accompany it. Through initiatives like “Pad a Girl Child,” SSDO remains dedicated to empowering women and girls, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to manage their menstrual health with dignity and confidence. Together, we can create a society where menstruation is recognized as a natural, healthy part of life, free from stigma and barriers.
“Those who fight for the rights of others must not be denied their own.”
Leaders, experts, and advocates from across West Africa gathered at BON Octagon, Abuja, for the West Africa Regional Convening on Labour Protection in Civil Society Workspaces. This pivotal event, hosted by the South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO) in partnership with Ford Foundation on January 17, 2025, emphasized the urgent need to enhance labour conditions in civil society organizations (CSOs) throughout the region.
Civil society in West Africa serves as a cornerstone of democratic governance, human rights, and social justice. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, and advocacy networks work tirelessly to address pressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and human rights abuses. However, the very individuals driving this transformative work often find themselves in precarious situations.
Despite their critical role in promoting positive change, civil society workers in West Africa frequently face precarious working conditions, including inadequate facilities, insufficient resources, and high-risk environments. Job insecurity is also a major concern, characterized by short-term contracts, unpredictable funding, and limited employment benefits. Furthermore, limited social protections leave workers vulnerable to financial shocks, health crises, and other risks.
This stark contradiction – where those advocating for the rights and dignity of others are themselves denied basic protections, undermines the effectiveness and sustainability of civil society organizations. It also perpetuates a cycle of exploitation, where workers are expected to sacrifice their well-being for the greater good.
The convening highlighted key thematic areas – employment dynamics, social protection, safety, security and rights at work, and employee representation.
There was a panel discussion where these thematic areas were explored in-depth. The panelists noted that job insecurity is a pervasive issue, as many CSOs rely on short-term donor funding, resulting in project-based contracts that leave workers in a state of uncertainty. This uncertainty leads to high turnover rates, which weaken institutional memory and reduce the sector’s effectiveness. They further noted that access to social protections, such as health insurance, pensions, and paid leave, is often limited, particularly in smaller organizations or rural areas. This gap leaves workers vulnerable to financial and health risks, and eventually hampers CSOs’ ability to attract and retain talented individuals.
The panelists also emphasized that civil society workers frequently operate in high-risk environments, including conflict zones and politically unstable areas, and without adequate safety protocols, these individuals face significant physical and emotional risks, further exacerbating the challenges they already face. Lastly, they observed that worker representation and agency are often overlooked, leaving workers without a voice in decision-making processes that affect their working conditions, benefits, and career advancement. This lack of representation can lead to further exploitation and marginalization, undermining the very principles of social justice that CSOs aim to promote.
The research findings presented during the event shed light on both the gaps and opportunities in labour protections, forming the basis for discussions during the panel session. A breakout session followed, culminating in a set of recommendations aimed at addressing the pressing issues facing civil society workers.
The convening’s discussions emphasized the critical importance of collective action to drive transformative change. To achieve this, stakeholders must work together. Donors must rethink funding models to promote stable employment and long-term sustainability. Governments must enforce updated labour laws that include the civil society sector. Meanwhile, CSO leaders must foster organizational cultures that prioritize fairness, equity, and worker well-being.
By addressing these gaps, stakeholders can ensure that civil society workers are equipped to fulfill their mission of creating positive, lasting change.
The West African Regional Convening on Labour Protection marked a turning point in the movement toward justice, fairness, and sustainability for civil society workers. By working together, donors, governments, and CSOs can create workplaces where dignity and security are the norm, not the exception. The future of civil society in West Africa depends on it.
On December 16th and 17th, 2024, Enugu State made a historic leap in its commitment to gender equality by hosting a two-day validation workshop. The event, focused on refining the Enugu State Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy and Action Plan, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and community leaders. The primary goal of the workshop was to align the WEE Policy with the state’s unique socio-economic realities and ensure it effectively addresses the barriers faced by women, particularly in rural areas.
The WEE Policy, developed by the South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO) with support from the development Research and Projects Centre (dRPC) and in collaboration with the Enugu State Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, is a groundbreaking framework aimed at breaking down barriers hindering women’s access to economic opportunities. The policy emphasizes critical areas such as employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership while also improving women’s access to education, healthcare, and addressing legal and cultural obstacles to their economic empowerment.
The first day of the workshop concentrated on a detailed review of the draft WEE Policy. Participants engaged in discussions, offering valuable feedback and suggestions to enhance the document’s relevance and effectiveness. Key areas of focus included identifying local challenges, understanding the socio-cultural and economic barriers that limit women’s participation in the economy, and addressing restricted access to financial services, inadequate vocational training opportunities, and limited control over agricultural tools and resources. Stakeholders also emphasized the importance of promoting inclusivity by ensuring that the policy addresses the needs of women across diverse demographics, including rural dwellers. The need to foster collaboration through robust partnerships among government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector players to achieve the policy’s objectives was also highlighted.
During the workshop, the Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, delivered an inspiring speech highlighting the vital role of women’s economic empowerment in achieving sustainable development and reducing poverty. She emphasized that empowering women economically is essential for the state’s growth, enabling them to contribute fully to the economy and improve their livelihoods.
Dr. Stanley Illechukwu, Executive Director of South Saharan Social Development Organisation (SSDO), reiterated that the WEE Policy aligns with SSDO’s mission of making development happen for women. He noted that the policy aims to address the unique challenges faced by women in Enugu State and focuses on improving their access to education, healthcare, and financial resources, allowing them to participate fully in the economy as entrepreneurs, employees, or consumers. Dr. Illechukwu also emphasized the policy’s commitment to addressing legal and cultural barriers to create an environment where women can thrive economically.
The second day shifted the focus to actionable steps for implementing the WEE Policy. Collaborative sessions were held to develop a comprehensive action plan. Participants worked together to set measurable goals, defining clear and achievable objectives to track the policy’s progress over time. They outlined specific roles for various government departments, civil society groups, and community leaders, assigning responsibilities to ensure accountability. Additionally, a phased timeline for implementation was proposed, providing a realistic and sustainable approach to rolling out the policy initiatives.
The discussions during the workshop culminated in several critical recommendations aimed at ensuring the WEE Policy’s success. Enhancing access to resources by addressing systemic barriers that prevent women from accessing agricultural tools, financial services, and vocational training was identified as a priority. Strengthening financial inclusion through targeted programs to increase women’s access to credit and savings opportunities was also emphasized.
Participants highlighted the importance of tackling socio-cultural barriers by launching awareness campaigns to challenge gender stereotypes and promote gender equity. Finally, the establishment of a robust framework to monitor and evaluate progress was deemed essential for regularly assessing the policy’s impact and making necessary adjustments.
As the workshop concluded, the focus shifted to the next steps. The feedback and insights gathered will be integrated into the final draft of the WEE Policy, which will then be submitted to the State Executive Council for approval. The official launch of the policy is scheduled for February 2025, marking a significant milestone in Enugu’s journey toward gender-inclusive economic development.
Enugu State’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment is a beacon of progress. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women and fostering a collaborative approach, the state is paving the way for sustainable and inclusive growth. With the WEE Policy as a guiding framework, women across Enugu State will have greater opportunities to thrive, contribute to their communities, and drive socio-economic transformation.
The validation workshop at Sylvia Hotel was more than just an event; it was a pivotal moment in Enugu State’s pursuit of gender equity. Through careful planning, stakeholder collaboration, and a focus on actionable strategies, the state is poised to set an example for others to follow. As February 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Enugu, ready to witness the launch of a transformative policy that promises to empower women and foster economic prosperity for all.
In an era where emerging technologies shape every aspect of our lives, the importance of understanding their ethical implications, rights, and associated threats cannot be overstated. On December 11th, and 12th, 2024, we hosted a groundbreaking 2-day workshop in Enugu State, Nigeria, to explore these critical issues. With the invaluable support of our partners – Spaces for Change, New Fund Ventures, Nigerian Cybercrime Center, and the Ford Foundation – the event brought together leading experts, policymakers, security stakeholders, and private consultants to engage in meaningful discussions and promote actionable insights.
Day 1 Highlights: Exploring Digital Rights and Emerging Threats
The first day of the workshop set a strong foundation for the discussions to come. Dr. Amanin Akpabio, from the Faculty of Law at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, began the event with a compelling session on Digital Human Rights. He delved into the foundational principles of human rights in the digital age, highlighting the risks of unchecked technological advancements and advocating for policies that prioritize human dignity and freedom. Dr. Akpabio also addressed the growing trend of digital authoritarianism and its implications for democracies worldwide.
Adaobi Nwankwo, Head of Innovation at the National Data Protection Commission, followed with an enlightening session on Privacy Laws. She provided a comprehensive overview of data protection frameworks, explaining how privacy rights are codified in Nigerian law and international treaties. Her presentation included case studies on data breaches and their societal impacts, offering practical recommendations for strengthening privacy protections at both individual and organizational levels.
The issue of cybercrime was tackled by CSP Odandinma, Assistant Director of Administration at the Nigerian Cybercrime Center. His session provided an in-depth look at the Types, Effects, and Prevention Strategies related to cybercrime in Nigeria. Using real-world examples, CSP Odandinma illustrated the financial, emotional, and societal toll of cybercrimes, such as phishing scams, ransomware, and identity theft. He emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns and the adoption of advanced forensic tools to combat these threats.
Lotanna Nwobodo, a private legal consultant, led a thought-provoking discussion on Surveillance Technology and its implications for civic space. He unpacked the dual-edged nature of surveillance tools, which can be instrumental in maintaining security but also pose significant risks to privacy and freedom of expression. Nwobodo called for the establishment of clear legal frameworks to govern the use of surveillance technologies, ensuring transparency and accountability in their deployment.
To wrap up the day, Mrs. Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, Executive Director of Spaces for Change, delivered an eye-opening exploration of Dual-use Technologies. She elaborated on the ethical dilemmas posed by technologies like drones, AI-powered systems, and facial recognition tools, which can serve both civilian and military purposes. Her session stressed the importance of public participation in decision-making processes related to these technologies to ensure their responsible use.
Day 2 Highlights: Advanced Strategies and Collaborative Insights
The second day of the workshop built on the momentum of Day 1, diving deeper into actionable strategies for addressing the threats posed by emerging technologies.
ACP Mohammed Abdullahi kicked off the day with an insightful presentation on Curbing Specific Cybercrimes in Nigeria, focusing on detection, punishment, and prevention. He provided a detailed analysis of the legal and technical measures available to law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to address cross-border cybercrime. His session also included a roadmap for implementing community-based initiatives to enhance cybersecurity awareness.
Lotanna Nwobodo returned with two engaging sessions: Cybersecurity and Human Rights and The Proliferation of New Technologies: Mapping Harms, Incidents, and Victims. He examined the intersection of cybersecurity and human rights, shedding light on how overly stringent cybersecurity measures can inadvertently suppress freedoms. His second session provided a framework for identifying and documenting the harms caused by emerging technologies, particularly their disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.
Adaobi Nwankwo’s expertise once again took center stage with sessions on Applying Safeguards in law Enforcement and Cybercrime Investigations and Basic Data Protection Strategies. She shared actionable tips on incorporating privacy considerations into investigative processes, ensuring compliance with legal standards while maintaining operational effectiveness. Her second session outlined practical steps for individuals and organizations to protect their data, including encryption, secure password practices, and regular audits.
Mrs. Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri concluded the workshop with a powerful session on Advocacy Strategies for Improved Protection of Digital Rights. She highlighted successful advocacy campaigns that have led to significant policy changes and provided participants with tools to mobilize stakeholders, build coalitions, and sustain momentum for digital rights initiatives. Her session emphasized the critical role of storytelling in raising public awareness and influencing policymakers.
As a testament to their active participation and engagement, all attendees were awarded certificates of completion at the end of the workshop. This recognition underscores their commitment to fostering a future where technology serves as a force for good, guided by ethics, respect for rights, and vigilance against threats. Together, we can build a safer and more equitable digital landscape.
Key Stakeholders and Collaborative Dialogue
The workshop’s success was amplified by the participation of key security stakeholders, including representatives from the Nigerian Police, Road Safety, Immigration, Civil Defence, and private consultants. Their diverse perspectives enriched the conversations and emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Partners
This transformative workshop would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated partners: Spaces for Change, New Fund Ventures, Nigerian Cybercrime Center, and the Ford Foundation. Their commitment to advancing ethical technology practices and safeguarding digital rights played a pivotal role in making this event a resounding success.
In today’s digital age, cybercrime has become a pervasive threat that affects individuals, communities, and nations worldwide. As we commemorate Human Rights Day, it is essential to recognize that digital rights are also human rights. To combat this menace, it is crucial to educate the next generation on the importance of cybersecurity and the dangers of cybercrime.
We embarked on an awareness campaign to Gabselina Schools and The Spirit of Daniel Academy, both in Enugu State, to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves online. We were honored to have CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry, Director of the Nigerian Police Force’s National Cyber Crime Centre, Abuja, and Chairman of the Interpol African Working Group on Cyber Crime, share his expertise with the students.
CP Uche Ifeanyi Henry emphasized the importance of protecting oneself online and offline, particularly highlighting the vulnerabilities of the female gender. It was a critical message that resonated deeply with the students. As a seasoned expert in cybercrime, CP Henry’s insights and expertise provided a comprehensive understanding of the importance of cybersecurity and the dangers of cybercrime.
Understanding Cyber Space and Cyber Security
CP Henry began by explaining the concept of cyber space and its relationship with cyber security. He defined cyber space as the online environment where individuals interact, communicate, and access information. He then emphasized the importance of cyber security, highlighting the measures individuals can take to protect themselves online, such as using strong passwords, keeping software up-to-date, and being cautious when sharing personal information.
The Dangers of Cyber Crime
CP Henry also delved into the dangers of cybercrime, explaining the various types of cyber threats, including phishing, social engineering, and malware. He emphasized the importance of being aware of these threats and taking steps to prevent them. He also highlighted the consequences of cybercrime, including identity theft, financial loss, and emotional distress.
Sextortion: A Growing Concern
One of the most critical topics CP Henry addressed was sextortion. He explained that sextortion is a form of cybercrime where individuals are coerced into sharing explicit images or videos. He emphasized the importance of being cautious when sharing personal information online and the need to report any incidents of sextortion to the authorities.
Empowering the Next Generation
CP Henry’s message was not only informative but also empowering. He encouraged the students to take control of their online presence, to be mindful of their digital footprint, and to report any incidents of cybercrime to the authorities. He also emphasized the importance of promoting cybersecurity awareness and education, and encouraged the students to share their knowledge with their peers and communities.
The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness
Empowering the next generation against cybercrime requires a collective effort from individuals, organizations, and governments. By promoting cybersecurity awareness and educating ourselves and others on the risks associated with online activities, we can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cybercrime.
Stay safe online! Cybersecurity awareness is key to preventing cybercrime. Let’s work together to educate ourselves and others, promoting a safer digital community for all.
