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From Abdullahi Adamu Gusau
The Zamfara state government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV/CP) through sustained support for the Huriyya Dauda Lawal Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Gusau.
The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka, during an inspection visit by a delegation from UNICEF. The delegation, led by Mrs. Sarah, toured the facility to assess its operations and service delivery.
A press statement issued by the public relations officer of the state ministry for women affairs and social development , Sulaiman Aliyu Gusau indicated that the commissioner was represented by the Director Child, Hajiya Farida Abdulrazak Tigana who conducted a unit-by-unit inspection of the centre and reiterated the state government’s resolve to address all forms of GBV/CP, describing it as a major obstacle to social and economic development.
She stated that the centre operates 24 hours a day, providing survivors with comprehensive services including medical care, psychosocial counselling, legal assistance, and a secure environment aimed at restoring their dignity.
The Commissioner emphasized that the services are free of charge, strictly confidential, and include follow-up on reported cases.
Dr. Anka attributed the rising cases of GBV/CP in the north wastern states largely to the lingering insecurity affecting the region and other parts of the country.
She, however, assured that state government is intensifying efforts to curb the menace through collaboration with security agencies, the judiciary, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to ensure justice for survivors.
Dr. Aisha MZ Anka further disclosed that community-based structures have been established across the 14 local government areas of the state to identify, trace, and provide support to victims of sexual and gender-based violence.
In her remarks, the UNICEF delegation leader, Mrs. Sarah praised the Zamfara State Government for its sustained commitment to supporting survivors and pledged continued partnership to strengthen service delivery at the centre.
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