Training on GBV prevention strengthens community leadership in Mecula

On 23 and 24 May 2025, Mecula district, in Niassa province, hosted a training organised by Girl Child Rights (GCR), in partnership with UNFPA Mozambique and with funding from the European Union, under the ResiNorte project. The training was aimed at community leaders, matronas and influential figures, with the objective of strengthening the role of local leadership in the prevention of and response to gender-based violence (GBV), particularly in contexts affected by armed conflict.

Twenty leaders looking for solutions

The activity brought together 20 local leaders and focused on safe case referral mechanisms, with special attention to child protection. Starting from the guiding question “As leaders, what should we do to combat GBV in the community?”, participants were challenged to propose practical, sustainable solutions suited to the local culture.

The event was attended by the President of the Multisectoral Committee, who praised the initiative and highlighted its importance in strengthening social cohesion and local capacity to respond to the impacts of conflict and gender inequalities.

A plan for talks in every neighbourhood

As a direct result of the training, the leaders proposed, in coordination with the local Government, a plan for open-air community talks in every neighbourhood. The aim is to bring the information covered in the training to the whole population and ensure that everyone is involved.

Visit to Mecula Community Radio

In the same context, the GCR team visited Mecula Community Radio to assess the reach of its radio programmes, learn about listener participation levels and explore ways of expanding GBV awareness-raising through local media.

About the project

Through the ResiNorte project, implemented in partnership with UNFPA and funded by the European Union, GCR works in the districts of Mecula, Marrupa and Cuamba, in Niassa province, and Nangade and Mocímboa da Praia, in Cabo Delgado province. The objective is to facilitate access for girls and women who are survivors of GBV to protection and support services, particularly in contexts of displacement and instability.

For protection reasons, we do not publish the names of the people we support or images that could identify them.