14/08/2026
The New Initiative For Social Development's MFN Project Supports trained dominant Group (Barbers Associations) Members to Conduct 50-by-50 GBV Step-Down Training During Their Bi-Monthly Meetings in Oke Igan Zone, Oyemekun Zone and Oke Aro Zone 1 in Akure, Ondo State
Through the Male Feminist Network (MFN) Project, NISD empowered members of the Barbers Associations, a male-dominated community group, with knowledge and skills to serve as GBV prevention champions.
The trained members leveraged their bi-monthly meetings in Oke Igan, Oyemekun, and Oke Aro Zone 1 to cascade 50-by-50 GBV step-down sessions, creating a multiplier effect beyond the initial beneficiaries.
The sessions equipped participants with practical knowledge on GBV prevention, harmful gender norms, reporting and referral pathways, and the role of men and boys as allies. Participants were encouraged to challenge harmful practices, speak out against violence, promote respectful relationships, and support survivors.
This intervention demonstrates how existing male-dominated community structures can become powerful platforms for transforming social norms and preventing GBV by investing in men as allies and community champions.
Male Feminists Network Project through New Initiative For Social Development as one of the implementing partners with support from African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre L*D) is committed to building a stronger grassroots movement for gender equality and violence-free communities in Ondo State.
