RFLD

In Sub-Saharan Africa, WHRDs face a shrinking civic space and escalating attacks. These attacks include physical violence, sexual harassment, online attacks, legal persecution, and social ostracism. This is fueled by impunity, where perpetrators go unpunished. The consequences are silenced voices, limited progress on human rights, and a climate of fear. To address this, governments must…

In West Africa, women and girls with disabilities face compounded challenges of VAWG, limited access to SRH, and discrimination. This article explores the intricate links between these issues and their devastating consequences. It calls for action through legal reforms, awareness campaigns, accessibility measures, empowerment initiatives, and innovative solutions to break the silence and create a…

This article examines the potential of digital tools to address two major challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa: violence against women and girls (VAWG) and limited access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education and services. It highlights how mobile apps, online platforms, and telehealth services can empower survivors, raise awareness about VAWG and provide safe spaces…

This research paper examines the importance of consent for women in West Africa, where complex cultural norms and limited access to information can create challenges in safeguarding their sexual and reproductive health. The paper delves into the current landscape, identifying the factors that hinder women’s ability to make informed decisions about their bodies and engage…

Dans la fresque vibrante de l’Afrique de l’Ouest, où les cultures s’entrecroisent et les histoires convergent, le spectre du militarisme et de la guerre a jeté une longue ombre. Cependant, l’histoire souvent racontée est celle d’une résolution des conflits par le biais d’approches conventionnelles et centrées sur les hommes. Cet article cherche à remettre en…

Widespread sexual violence in West and Central Africa leaves survivors with devastating physical, psychological, and social consequences. Traditional mental health services often lack cultural sensitivity, leading to misdiagnosis, mistrust, and perpetuation of stigma. Culturally sensitive services, incorporating traditional healing practices, survivor-led support groups, and community outreach programs offer a more effective approach. Challenges like limited…

The pursuit of gender equality is a multifaceted endeavor requiring collective efforts from all members of society. AGUEH Dossi Sekonnou Gloria, Founder and President of Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD), recognizes the importance of men as allies in this fight. Gloria emphasizes that men should actively work to dismantle patriarchal norms, refraining…

Le RFLD offre des opportunités aux hommes de s’engager dans des activités qui favorisent l’égalité des sexes, telles que la contestation des stéréotypes sexistes, le soutien du leadership des femmes et la promotion de politiques inclusives en matière de genre.

RFLD’s MEL Director moderated a panel on assessing the effectiveness of regional normative instruments against democratic backsliding in West Africa. The panel brought together experts to discuss the need for stronger implementation mechanisms, enhanced civil society engagement, and improved coordination among regional actors to effectively combat democratic erosion. They emphasized the importance of context-specific analysis…