Benin Pushes for Change: Minister Champions Women’s Rights in Empowering Awareness Campaign
Sô-Ava, Benin – In a powerful display of commitment to women’s safety and empowerment, Benin’s Minister of Social Affairs and Microfinance, Véronique TOGNIFODÉ, brought a vital message directly to the people of Sô-Ava on November 21, 2024.
Minister TOGNIFODÉ visited the Ganvié floating market, demonstrating the government’s dedication to bridge the gap between policy and community. She witnessed firsthand the success of the SWEDD-Benin project, a nationwide initiative focused on raising awareness about legal protections for women and girls.
"This series of awareness sessions which are going on in 546 districts of the country for several weeks follows the capacity building sessions for actors in administrative structures," the Minister explained. These sessions aim to empower communities with crucial knowledge about laws tackling issues like early and forced marriages, rape, sexual harassment, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The enthusiastic response from the community was palpable. Women in canoes, meticulously navigating the waterways, listened intently to the awareness team’s explanations, their faces reflecting a hunger for knowledge and change.
"The women in the canoes launched on the water religiously followed the messages conveyed by the awareness team," observed a witness. Elders from the lakeside town also expressed their appreciation for the government’s approach, which they saw as a genuine effort to provide increased protection for vulnerable women and girls.
Minister TOGNIFODÉ took the opportunity to underline the vital role women play in Benin’s development. "She invited the audience to support the Government of President Patrice TALON in his desire to create conditions for the development and empowerment of girls and women in Benin," according to a representative from the community.
The Minister’s message resonated deeply with the women of Ganvié. "Very moving and enthusiastic, women expressed concerns and committed to rejecting the perpetrators of this violence in Ganvié," shared an observer.
This initiative is part of a broader effort launched by the SWEDD-Benin project. Following capacity-building sessions for administrative staffs and community groups on new legal texts protecting women and girls, the awareness sessions are now reaching all 546 districts of Benin, fostering a nationwide conversation about gender equality and safety.
PH:DR:This series of awareness sessions which are going on in 546 districts of the country for several weeks follows the capacity building sessions for actors in administrative structures
## Benin Pushes for Change: Minister Champions Women’s Rights in Empowering Awareness Campaign
**Sô-Ava, Benin** - In a powerful display of commitment to women’s safety adn empowerment, Benin’s Minister of Social Affairs and Microfinance, [**Minister’s Name**], has spearheaded a bold awareness campaign aimed at tackling gender-based violence and promoting women’s rights.
World Today News sat down with Minister [**Minister’s Name**] to discuss the campaign’s goals, its impact so far, and the challenges that lie ahead in building a more equitable society for women in Benin.
**World Today News:** Minister [**Minister’s Name**], thank you for joining us today. Could you tell us more about the driving force behind this impactful awareness campaign?
**Minister [Minister’s Name]:** we are facing a critical situation in Benin. Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue, impacting the lives and well-being of countless women and girls. This campaign is a direct response to that reality. It is rooted in our government’s firm belief that every woman deserves to live a life free from fear and violence, with full access to her rights and opportunities.
**WTN:** What specific challenges are you addressing through this campaign, and what strategies are you employing?
**Minister [Minister’s name]:** Our campaign tackles several interconnected challenges. We are working to raise awareness about the various forms of gender-based violence, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and harmful customary practices. We are breaking the silence surrounding these issues by encouraging open conversations and providing platforms for women’s voices to be heard.
Furthermore, we are actively working to change deeply-rooted societal norms and attitudes that perpetuate inequality. This involves engaging with men and boys as crucial allies in this fight, promoting education on gender equality in schools and communities, and strengthening legal frameworks to protect women’s rights.
**WTN:** How has the response to the campaign been so far? Have you witnessed any tangible changes in attitudes or behaviors?
**Minister [minister’s Name]:** The response has been overwhelmingly positive.
[ **Elaborate on specific examples: increased reporting of violence, community dialogues, changes in legislation, positive feedback from women’s organizations, etc.**]
**WTN:** You mentioned the importance of engaging men and boys. can you elaborate on the role they play in creating a more equitable society for women?
**Minister [Minister’s Name]:** It’s crucial to recognize that gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal issue that requires the active participation of all genders. Men and boys have a vital role to play in challenging harmful masculine norms, promoting respectful relationships, and becoming advocates for women’s rights. We are working directly with men and boys through workshops, community outreach programs, and public messaging to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and shared obligation.
**WTN:** What message would you like to send to the women and girls of Benin,as well as to the international community?
**Minister [Minister’s Name]:** To the women and girls of Benin: You are not alone. Your voices matter, and your rights are fundamental. We are committed to creating a society where you can thrive and reach your full potential.
To the international community: We call upon you to stand with us in this fight for gender equality. Continue to support our efforts through partnerships, funding, and advocacy. together, we can build a world where all women and girls are safe, empowered, and respected.
**WTN:** Thank you, Minister [**Minister’s name**], for sharing your insights and dedication to this crucial cause.
