Amplifying Voices, Advancing SRHR and Safe Communities Through Collective Action
April marked a significant period of engagement, learning, and collaboration under the SEMA NAMI project and the Jamii Salama Initiative (JSI), bringing together key stakeholders, media professionals, and community members to address Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
SEMA NAMI Stakeholders Meeting: Building Collective Momentum for SRHR
The SEMA NAMI stakeholders meeting convened a diverse group of SRHR actors for a dynamic cross-learning session aimed at strengthening collaboration and shared impact. The engagement created a valuable platform for stakeholders to exchange experiences, reflect on ongoing interventions, and identify opportunities for joint action.
Through open dialogue and knowledge sharing, participants reinforced the importance of coordinated efforts in advancing adolescent health and rights. The session highlighted the need to center young people’s voices, strengthen partnerships, and adopt more inclusive, community-driven approaches to ensure sustainable and meaningful change.
Media Engagement Training: Shaping Responsible and Gender-Sensitive Reporting
Recognizing the critical role of media in shaping public perception and influencing social change, JSI conducted a Media Engagement Training targeting 15 journalists from both traditional and non-traditional media houses.
The training focused on strengthening gender-sensitive reporting on SGBV, emphasizing ethical storytelling that protects survivors, encourages reporting, and challenges harmful narratives. Journalists were equipped with tools and insights to improve how stories related to violence are reported, ensuring dignity, accuracy, and responsibility.
A key outcome of the training was the development of practical and actionable reporting guidelines, aimed at enhancing consistency, sensitivity, and professionalism in media coverage. This marks an important step toward building a media landscape that not only informs but also protects and empowers communities.
Community Outreach Raising Awareness on Gender-Based Violence
The community outreach activities on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) were conducted to deepen public understanding and drive behavioral change at the grassroots level. The outreach aimed to to Increase awareness and understanding of different forms of GBV, including its forms, causes, consequences, and prevention measures. But to provide accessible legal aid services to survivors and individuals affected by GBV and related protection issues.
These engagements created safe spaces for dialogue, learning, and reflection, empowering individuals with knowledge and encouraging communities to take an active role in preventing violence.
Together, these initiatives reflect a holistic approach engaging stakeholders, strengthening media, and empowering communities. By bridging knowledge, amplifying voices, and fostering collaboration, OVAH continues to contribute to a future where adolescents are empowered, rights are protected, and communities are safe and inclusive.