Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a serious issue that continues to affect individuals and communities worldwide. At Hen Mpoano, we are dedicated to finding innovative ways to tackle this problem, using games and sports to educate and empower communities. By integrating these activities into GBV education, we are creating more inclusive, interactive, and impactful programs that can bring about lasting change.
GBV can take many forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm. It is a preventable violation of human rights, and our approach aims to address it by fostering greater engagement and understanding within communities. While anyone can be affected by GBV, women and girls are disproportionately at risk, especially in vulnerable settings. Through our work, we seek to empower these individuals, offering them the tools and support needed to break the cycle of abuse.
At Hen Mpoano, we have found that games and sports are powerful tools for addressing GBV. This module is being used in engagement for our Women In Fisheries Against Violence (WiFVEs) Project which is funded by the European Union. Critical observations have proven to us that these activities create safe, open environments where participants feel comfortable discussing difficult topics, such as power dynamics, consent, and respect. Games also provide a platform for empowerment, helping individuals—particularly women and girls—build confidence and self-esteem. This hands-on experience allows participants to better understand the complexities of GBV and to take actionable steps toward prevention.
Engaging in sports and games can lead to more active participation and better retention of information. By making GBV education interactive and fun, we ensure that key messages are absorbed and remembered. This method also helps to strengthen communities, fostering solidarity and collective action against GBV. When communities come together in support of a shared goal, they become more resilient, better equipped to protect survivors, and more committed to preventing future violence.
As part of our commitment to ending GBV, we are calling on individuals and communities to join us in this effort. Gender-Based Violence, child trafficking, and the lack of education for children are issues that affect the well-being of entire communities. Together, we can break this cycle by promoting education, supporting survivors, and protecting vulnerable individuals from harm.
We urge you to take action: speak out against GBV, advocate for children’s education, and work to stop child trafficking.
At Hen Mpoano, we believe that every person has the right to live free from violence, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow. Through collective effort and innovative approaches like the integration of games and sports, we can create a safer, more just world for all.
