The objective of the project is to reduce the prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly female genital mutilation (FGM) in the Departements of Borgou and Alibori in Benin. The project is based on a multi-sector approach which fosters social change in individual and collective behaviour, as well as a shift in social norms that justify and perpetuate these practices. The project activities include: 1) training women, men, girls and boys on gender equality, sexual and reproductive rights, and the adverse effects of female genital mutilation; 2) supporting the central government in reviewing and harmonizing women’s rights policies and strategies by integrating GBV and FGM issues; 3) supporting professionals from health and education institutions to identify and implement activities geared towards eliminating mutilation FGM and other gender-based violence.
The expected outcomes of this project include: 1) improving the mobilisation and participation of women and girls from Borgou and Alibori, as well as their communities, in the fight against GBV, especially FGM; 2) improving the practices of the government and public institutions in Borgou and Alibori in promoting the eradication of FGM and other GBV.