Why Abubakarr Chose to Fight GBV

Abubakarr’s commitment to ending GBV was ignited by the harsh realities he observed in his community. He saw young children engaging in early sexual activities and physical confrontations becoming normalized. The lack of age restrictions at local dances and the absence of enforceable laws only exacerbated the problem. In his words, “There was no laid-down law to stop it.”

When an advertisement for volunteer opportunities at Rainbo Initiative caught his attention, Abubakarr knew it was his chance to act. “This was the right time to raise the issue,” he said. He was determined to not only address the immediate challenges but also to educate his community about the long-term consequences of GBV.

Abubakarr’s decision to step forward was not without its challenges. He faced resistance from individuals who were unwilling to confront the problem or who sought to compromise cases. Yet, his resolve never wavered. He believed that change could only come through education, awareness, and relentless advocacy.

A Day in the Life of a Changemaker

Abubakarr’s work as a volunteer was dynamic and demanding. While his formal schedule required him to work three days a week, his passion for the cause often saw him engaging with the community whenever the opportunity arose.

A typical day for Abubakarr was a whirlwind of activity. He conducted awareness-raising sessions targeting diverse groups, from school children to community leaders. “The most fulfilling part of my work,” he says, “was engaging with school pupils.” Through these interactions, he gained valuable insights into the challenges young people faced, which allowed him to craft tailored messages for both them and their parents.

However, the work was not without its hurdles. One of the biggest challenges was the community’s tendency to compromise GBV cases or delay justice. Despite these obstacles, Abubakarr persisted, building strong relationships with local police and other stakeholders to ensure survivors received the support they needed. “I follow up with the FSU {Family Support Unit} to monitor the process,” he noted, highlighting his dedication to seeing justice served.

Community Impact and Milestones

Abubakarr’s efforts have left a lasting mark on his community. Through his awareness campaigns, he has helped to shift attitudes and foster a culture of accountability. One of his most impactful initiatives was advocating for a bylaw prohibiting children from attending late-night dances—a significant step in protecting young people from exploitation.

He also supported the establishment of school clubs and Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) to empower women and girls. These groups served as safe spaces where community members could learn about GBV and access resources. “These strategies ensured community people felt confident when they saw locals talking about SGBV,” he explains.