On November 25, 2024, Enabel partnered with districts in Rwanda to launch the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The events, held in Gisagara District (Southern Province) and Rusizi District (Western Province), embraced the national theme, “All for GBV-Free Families.” This theme underscores the importance of family cohesion and collective responsibility in preventing conflict and addressing GBV.

The activities featured dynamic and engaging sessions, including walks, songs, role plays, personal testimonies, and speeches, all delivering powerful anti-GBV messages. Participants also accessed family planning services to empower families—particularly women—to make informed reproductive choices, reducing dependency and addressing power imbalances that often lead to GBV. Mental health services were also provided at the sites for GBV victims.

In addition, radio programs were broadcast on community radio stations to raise public awareness of the prevention and management of GBV, including the accessibility of health and justice services.

The events brought together a diverse group of participants, including youth, especially students, local leaders, Community Health Workers, Friends of Families, teen mothers, parents, and representatives from security organs.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global campaign led by civil society. It begins on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10, Human Rights Day. The campaign seeks to highlight that violence against women is one of the most pervasive human rights violations worldwide.

First launched in 1991 during the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute, the campaign has grown into a global movement, mobilizing individuals, organizations, and international partners, including the United Nations. This year, it aligns with the global theme, “Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to End Violence Against Women,” reinforcing the urgent call to eliminate violence against women and girls.

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