FEF Backs GRA’s Mission to tackle CRSV, empower Women with Disabilities and Promote Gender Equality

By Emmanuel Kwada

The Grassroots Researchers Association (GRA), in collaboration with the French Embassy Fund (FEF), has launched a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Survivors of Conflict Related Sexual Violence (CRSV), particularly those women with disabilities, promoting gender equality, and addressing CRSV issues in Nigeria.

The initiative, which focuses on building resilience and sustainable livelihoods, was highlighted during a recent event attended by local government representatives, community leaders, and stakeholders.

The event, held in Abuja, featured a keynote address by Mr. Ada James, a Board of Trustees representative, who emphasized the importance of grassroots interventions in fostering social justice and equality.

Friday Bitrus, Project Manager and Interim Executive Director of GRA, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the project’s objectives, underscoring the organization’s commitment to supporting marginalized women, especially those affected by conflict and disability.

The French Embassy Foundation, unable to attend in person, conveyed a goodwill message through a recorded video, reaffirming their support for GRA’s mission. The partnership, bolstered by increased funding for civil society organizations (CSOs) this year, aims to ensure that interventions reach underserved communities in Nigeria’s Numan, Mubi North, and Madagali local government areas.

In Indonesia, 90% of women in similar programs are farmers, and we’ve drawn inspiration from this to support women here

Founded in 2016, GRA is a nonprofit, non-political, rights-based organization registered with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission. Its mission is to mobilize grassroots initiatives that promote development, justice, and victim support.

With programs spanning climate change, conflict, security, justice, socioeconomic development, and governance, GRA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. A key focus of this initiative is empowering women, particularly those with disabilities, who make up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce in the targeted regions.

“In Indonesia, 90% of women in similar programs are farmers, and we’ve drawn inspiration from this to support women here,” Bitrus noted during the event, highlighting the cultural and economic parallels.

The program provides holistic support, including agricultural resources like fertilizers and herbicides, entrepreneurship training, and start-up capital to foster sustainable livelihoods.

A significant component of GRA’s work is tackling conflict-related sexual violence, a pervasive issue in Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions. Bitrus facilitated a session on CRSV, shedding light on the challenges faced by survivors and the need for comprehensive psychosocial support.

We are working with communities to provide spaces for these shelters, ensuring they are open, safe, and sustainable

The initiative includes establishing “pre-resilient shelters” across the country—safe, sustainable spaces where women can access food, training, and support to rebuild their lives.

“We are working with communities to provide spaces for these shelters, ensuring they are open, safe, and sustainable,” Bitrus explained. The program also collaborates with local governments to train women in skills that enhance their resilience and economic independence.

Women with disabilities, often marginalized and underrepresented, are a priority for GRA. The organization recognizes the unique challenges they face, including limited access to opportunities and resources. To address this, GRA is providing tailored entrepreneurship training, dividing participants into groups based on their interests and skill needs.

The initiative also includes partnerships with at least 60 companies in sectors like finance, environment, food, and psychosocial support to create sustainable business opportunities. “We are not just giving direct financial aid but providing resources like agricultural inputs and skill-building opportunities,” Bitrus clarified.

“This approach ensures women can start small-scale businesses, support their families, and contribute to their communities.”

The initiative aligns with GRA’s broader goal of promoting gender equality by strengthening women’s capacity to lead and thrive. By addressing systemic gaps in social, medical, and economic support, GRA aims to build resilience among women affected by conflict, disability, and marginalization.

This approach ensures women can start small-scale businesses, support their families, and contribute to their communities

The organization is also working to establish networks for women with disabilities, recognizing their role as farmers and community leaders. Local government representatives from Numan, Mubi North, and Madagali expressed enthusiasm for the project, pledging to provide spaces and support to ensure its success.

The collaboration with the French Embassy Foundation has been instrumental in scaling up these efforts, with increased funding enabling GRA to expand its reach and impact.

The French Embassy’s support underscores a shared commitment to fostering a Nigeria where gender equality thrives. “We are grateful for the French Embassy’s partnership, which has allowed us to scale up our interventions and make a tangible impact at the grassroots level,” Bitrus said, acknowledging the long-standing collaboration.

We are grateful for the French Embassy’s partnership, which has allowed us to scale up our interventions and make a tangible impact at the grassroots level

As GRA continues to roll out its programs, the organization remains focused on creating sustainable, inclusive solutions. By empowering women with disabilities, addressing conflict-related sexual violence, and promoting gender equality, GRA and the French Embassy Foundation are paving the way for a more equitable and resilient Nigeria.

For more information about GRA’s initiatives or to support their work, visit their official website or contact their office in Abuja.

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