This was carried out during the workshops. Analysis of the pre-workshop assessment revealed that prior to the workshop, the women were not informed about gender equality and equity. About 80% of participants attested to the fact that the training was entirely new to them.

The post workshop evaluation revealed that the participants were better informed about gender equality, equity and the need to make their voices heard through active participation in their communities.

The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for women to gain knowledge, skills and inspiration for driving gender equity through affirmative action and social inclusion initiatives. Participants left the training venue feeling empowered to be agents of change in their families, workplaces and communities.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Affirmative Action: The women were better informed about affirmative action with their capacities built to understand that affirmative action refers to policies and programs that seek to increase the representation of women and other underrepresented groups in education, employment and other areas.

• Understanding the difference between Equality and Equity: The participants were made to understand the difference between equality and equity, understanding that equality means providing the same resources and opportunities for everyone, regardless of their gender and circumstances. While equity involves tailoring resources and support to meet the unique needs of individuals or groups to ensure fair outcomes.

• Addressing systemic barriers: The workshop also provided insights into the systemic, structural and institutional barriers that prevent women from accessing opportunities and resources. It also addressed the need to tackle gender biases, discrimination and gender-based violence.

• Addressing gender norms and stereotypes: The workshop helped to look at the harmful gender norms, stereotypes and societal expectations that perpetuate our society, and limit women’s opportunities and participation.

• Collaboration and Engagement: The need for women to collaborate with government agencies (including the Nigerian Justice System), CSOs, and other development institutions in fighting gender inequality, discrimination, violence against women was emphasized.

The women were taught to speak out and report cases of violence to the appropriate quarters. Some participants stated that though cases are reported sometimes, necessary actions are not taken by these bodies and thus they get discouraged.

Addition of another Community in Rivers State

Okuru-Ama community was added to the Rivers State target communities after the women of the community upon hearing of the gender workshop organised for other groups and its positive impact on participants, spoke with the Accord team and appealed to be part of the process.