Sothawaca

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Sothawaca SOTHAWACA was established to respond primarily to issues on Women/ Girl-Child victims of violence, abuse and trafficking. Aims and Objectives:
a. b. d.

Society To Heighten Awareness of Women And Children Abuse (SOTHAWACA) consists of a community of men and women dedicated to breaking the circle of abuse and neglect as well as saving and strengthening children and the family in general. Society to Heighten Awareness of Women and Children Abuse (SOTHAWACA) is a Non Governmental Organization with the United Nations ECOSOC Special Consultative Status was founded October 1999 and duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Corporation in May, 2013 to advocate for and as well as to heighten awareness of the Rights, Welfare, and Development of Women, Youth, Children, and the Elderly who are the most vulnerable individuals in our society. SOTHAWACA is a Non-profit Organization whose works are centered on promotion of reproductive health, rights and general development for women, the girl-child, youths and the communities. The organization is run by the Initiator and a team of professionals and volunteers in various fields of Advocacy, Counseling, Capacity Building and Empowerment. Our concentration has been in areas of creating/heightening awareness, sensitization, advocacy, interventions, counseling and empowerment. We go the extra mile forming strong collaboration with government parastatals and likeminded organizations to have workshops, seminars, training for survivors and those working in such areas as interventions. In addition to this, the need to set up and provide services that would deal with issues of counseling, relocation, reintegration and support programs to meet the psychological needs of survivors and the general wellbeing for all. It is our desire at SOTHAWACA to ensure that we meet the needs that are not already been addressed by other organizations existing services. We have provision for individual and group counseling services for victims and survivors of violence. We envision a world where the feminine gender enjoy their human rights and live with dignity, equality, and justice. We have tried to build a society where violence and discrimination against women and girls unacceptable. Part of our goal is to prevent violence against women by transforming the norms and cultures that enable it. We carry this out by building a critical mass of change agents within the community where we work. We use arts, media, technology, and leadership training to drive culture change for human rights in order to make gender-based violence unacceptable. Also, we build a community with bold collective action that will deliver irreversible impact on the issue of our time. We employ traditional media to disrupt the norms that encourages gender-based violence in the realm of our community life. We believe in action for dignity, equality and justice of all. We support workplace wellness programs on communicable and non-communicable diseases through corporate social responsibility. We mobilize communities (youths inclusive) to seek justice for Gender-Based Violence and also promote access to sexual and reproductive health education and services through sports. We promote community ownership for all our projects. Society To Heighten Awareness of Women And Children Abuse (SOTHAWACA) is an Advisory, Counseling and Advocacy group that focuses on Child Sexual Abuse and Domestic Violence of persons especially as it relates to gender. We are a community of men and women dedicated to breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect as well as saving and strengthening children and the family in general. Basically, we are supporters and volunteers who encompass a diverse range of religious beliefs and perspectives. We render services to children and families who fall under these categories. We welcome and encourage anyone who want to make life better for all those who fall within our scope. victims / survivors to tell their stories without scaring them. SOTHAWACA acts as a voice to create awareness by STANDING UP and SPEAKING OUT against violence in our midst especially as it affects women and children. Legislative and Policy Advocacy is of paramount importance to us. Vision: SOTHAWACA envisions a society in which individuals enjoy all human rights and where the rights of women, children, youth and the elderly are protected and respected as a key component of sustainable development. Mission: SOTHAWACA is dedicated to breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect. We advocate for the rights of women and children by empowering individuals, families and social groups to lead happier lives with healthier relationships and serve less privileged fellow beings with love, by fostering intra personal and interpersonal harmony. Goal: To impacting lives of individuals through creative intervention for social transformation for effective empowerment and productive compassion by our drive in 6 major campaigns and regular programmes in areas like child protection, education, empowerment, family welfare, art & culture, digital & financial empowerment and disaster relief & rehabilitation. Advocate for the Rights, Wellbeing, Development of Women, Children especially the Girl Child, the Youth and the Elderly. Heighten awareness on issues centered on Child Abuse, Human Trafficking with special interest in child trafficking;
c. Providing accessible psychosocial support services. Promote gender-mainstreaming and gender-sensitive initiatives for change;
e. Encourage commitment for change in social development, policies, legislation Social Inclusion across all sectors. Our Main Beneficiaries:
a. Women and Children especially the Girl Child Young girls and Women victims of sexual and gender based violence;
b. Victims of Human Trafficking/Sex trafficking especially Child Exploitation;
Widows;
c. Married women and single ladies in general seeking avenues for empowerment in all its ramifications as to boost personal fulfillment and productivity. Core Values:
a. Transparency
b. Accountability
c. Good Governance
d. Reliability
e. Integrity
f. Fairness
g Efficiency
h. Volunteerism
i. Teamwork

Thematic Focus
* Education
* Women Empowerment
* Sustainability and Development
* Women and Children Rights especially the Girl Child.
* Gender Equality and Equity
* Women in Peace and Security

We at SOTHAWACA would like to be affiliated and partner with your Foundation or with anyone who shares in our vision and would join in championing our noble cause to ensure that appropriate measures and interventions are provided to STOP CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE and VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN . Address
# 31 Giwa-Amu Street,
Off Airport Road,
Benin City,
Edo State,
Nigeria. Telephone:
+ 234 - 807 - 440 - 3088 (Helpline 24 Hours)
+ 234 - 809 - 172 - 8363
+ 234 - 902 - 389 - 1168

Email Address:
[email protected]
[email protected]
Visit us @:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sothawacabenin/
https://www.facebook.com/sothawaca
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sothawaca-benin-city
http://www.sothawaca.org
http://www.sothawaca.blogspot.com
http://www.nayd.org/sothawaca.htm
Tweeter:

Skype Name: Sothawaca Benin-City

Membership
* National Council of Child Rights Advocates of Nigeria (NACCRAN);
* Child Protection Network (CPN);
* Nigerian Network of Non Governmental Organizations (NNNGO)
* Conference of Non Governmental Organizations (CONGOS);
* CIVICUS
* AWID
* Women's Global Network Reproductive Rights
* West African Civil Society Organizations Forum
* UN Women

18/09/2026

As a Sickle Cell Warrior’s Mum, I have known nights filled with fear, tears, prayers, hospital visits, and moments when I wondered how much more my child could endure. I have watched pain steal smiles and strength, yet I have also witnessed incredible courage.

To every Sickle Cell Warrior and every mother standing beside one: You are not alone. I see you. I hear you. I feel you. I understand the silent battles behind the smiles and the strength it takes to keep going.

Some days are heavy, but please hold on to hope. Your Warrior’s life is precious, their dreams are valid, and their story deserves compassion, dignity, support and love; not pity, discrimination or abuse.

From one Warrior’s Mum to another, may we continue to stand together, speak up, advocate fiercely and remind our children that they are never defined by sickle cell. We walk this journey together.

Dear Fellow GBV Advocates,Every day, we stand in the gap for survivors. We listen to painful stories, respond to emergen...
16/09/2026

Dear Fellow GBV Advocates,

Every day, we stand in the gap for survivors. We listen to painful stories, respond to emergencies, confront injustice, make referrals, offer hope, and sometimes carry the weight of another person’s trauma long after the case is closed. We give so much of ourselves because we believe every woman, every child, and every vulnerable person deserves safety, dignity, justice, and a voice.

But today, I want to remind you of something equally important: caring for yourself is not selfish. You cannot continuously pour from an empty cup. Resting does not mean you care less. Taking a break does not mean you are abandoning survivors. Protecting your emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing is part of responsible advocacy.

Dear Advocate, you are human before you are an advocate. You are allowed to cry. You are allowed to say, “I need help.” You are allowed to step back, breathe, sleep, pray, laugh, reconnect with loved ones, and simply exist without solving somebody else's problem. You deserve compassion too. The pain you encounter should not become the pain you permanently carry.

Let us build a culture where advocates support advocates, where seeking psychosocial support is not seen as weakness, and where boundaries are respected. We cannot fight violence effectively while destroying ourselves in the process. Sustainable advocacy requires sustainable advocates.

So, dear GBV Advocate, please take care of YOU. Rest when you can. Speak when you are overwhelmed. Seek help when you need it. Celebrate the small victories. Remember why you started. Your voice matters, your life matters, and you matter too.

With love, solidarity and deep appreciation for all you do,

A Fellow Advocate for the Voiceless
Healing • Determination • Survival

16/09/2026

Sickle Cell Awareness Month – Day 15

Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped. It is not contagious and can affect anyone. Understanding the condition helps reduce stigma, discrimination and misinformation.

A pain crisis occurs when sickled cells block blood flow, causing severe pain. Pain may occur in the chest, back, arms, legs or abdomen and may be accompanied by fatigue, swelling or fever.

During a crisis, seek medical attention promptly, stay hydrated, keep warm, and follow the prescribed treatment plan. Never ignore severe or unusual symptoms.

Let us replace ignorance with knowledge, compassion and support. Every Warrior deserves dignity, understanding and quality care.

15/09/2026

With Caring Hearts Initiative For Advocacy Development And Empowerment – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

08/09/2026
08/09/2026

Sickle Cell Awareness Month: Knowledge, Compassion, Advocacy ❤️

Sickle cell is a genetic blood disorder that affects how red blood cells carry oxygen. Knowledge helps individuals understand the condition, recognise symptoms, and seek timely medical care.

People living with sickle cell deserve compassion, dignity, and support; not stigma, discrimination, pity, or harmful stereotypes. Let us listen, understand, and stand with them.

Good healthcare, regular check-ups, proper hydration, prescribed medications, healthy habits, and early treatment of complications can help people living with sickle cell manage their health and thrive.

Advocacy means speaking up for better healthcare, affordable treatment, stronger policies, research, and inclusive communities. Together, we can challenge myths and promote hope.

SOTHAWACA remains committed to raising awareness and amplifying the voices of people affected by sickle cell. Knowledge creates understanding. Compassion creates support. Advocacy creates change.

07/09/2026

YES, BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT IS EXPENSIVE… BUT DOES THAT MAKE ITS BENEFITS LESS REAL? 🩸

Since my last post on Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) and Sickle Cell Disease, I've seen many comments saying:

"But how much does it cost?"

"Ordinary people can't afford it."

"It's too expensive!"

And honestly, you are right. BMT can be extremely expensive, and the financial burden can be a major barrier for many families.
But here's something important we shouldn't overlook👇

The fact that BMT is expensive does NOT cancel the positive impact it can have on carefully selected people living with sickle cell disease.

For some patients, a successful transplant can potentially free them from the constant cycle of sickle cell crises, hospital admissions, blood transfusions and some complications of the disease.

I've also seen people in the comments sharing their personal experiences of their children undergoing BMT successfully. One parent even shared how her child continued medication for several months after the transplant and has since been living a normal life.

However, BMT is not suitable for everyone, and it is not something anyone should rush into simply because they have sickle cell disease. Age, overall health, disease complications, availability of a suitable donor, transplant centre expertise and other medical factors all matter.

And what if you cannot afford BMT?

That does NOT mean there is no hope.

Sickle cell disease can still be managed with proper medical care Involving regular check-ups, prescribed medications, vaccination, adequate hydration, good nutrition, avoiding known triggers, timely treatment of infections and complications, and appropriate pain/crisis management.

There are also ongoing efforts around newer sickle cell treatments, and access to specialist care can make a huge difference.

So let's remember this:
BMT being expensive is a real problem.
But its potential benefit is also real.

We should discuss both realities, the cost AND the possibility it offers while helping families understand their options rather than giving them false hope or discouraging them completely. 🫂

If you or someone you know is living with sickle cell disease, please don't make treatment decisions based on social media comments alone. Speak with a qualified haematologist/transplant specialist to know what options are appropriate for you.

Sickle cell is a challenge, but it should never be a reason to stop searching for hope.

Follow Benitha Amarachi Benson




(Credit to Sickle Cell Warriors)

07/09/2026

As a warrior, take your routine prophylaxis daily. Prevention is your shield, protecting your health and strengthening your readiness to face every challenge. Stay disciplined, follow medical guidance, and never underestimate the power of consistent care.

Your courage shines brightest when paired with wisdom. Make prevention a daily commitment, encourage others, and stand strong for a healthier future.

07/09/2026

DOES SICKLE CELL HAVE AN EXPIRY DATE? ❤️🩸

No. Sickle cell does NOT come with an expiry date.

At SOTHAWACA, we have seen and heard many people say, “People with sickle cell don't live beyond 25 and at most 40.” For crying out loud, this is a harmful misconception. We know that while sickle cell disease can cause serious complications and may affect life expectancy, there is no fixed age at which a person living with sickle cell is expected to die.

People living with sickle cell can and most definitely do live into their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. How long someone lives is influenced by the type of sickle cell disease, access to quality healthcare, early diagnosis, preventive care, treatment, nutrition, hydration, management of complications and other individual factors.

🩸 WHAT CAN HELP PEOPLE WITH SICKLE CELL LIVE HEALTHIER LIVES?

✅ Attend regular medical appointments and follow your healthcare provider's advice.
✅ Take prescribed medications and preventive treatments consistently.
✅ Stay well hydrated, especially in hot weather or during physical activity.
✅ Eat a balanced and nutritious diet.
✅ Get adequate rest and avoid known triggers of crises.
✅ Seek medical attention promptly when warning signs or unusual symptoms occur.
✅ Learn about your condition and communicate openly with your healthcare team.
✅ Take care of your emotional and mental wellbeing. ❤️

Sickle cell is a condition to manage and not a countdown to death.

SOTHAWACA appeals to all concerned, don't allow an old statistic, someone's assumption, or a careless comment put a limit on your dreams.

If you live with sickle cell, your story is still being written.
Keep living. Keep planning. Keep dreaming. Keep believing. Keep taking care of yourself. 🙏🏾❤️

And if you know someone living with sickle cell, don't tell them how long you think they have to live. Support them, encourage them and remind them that their life has value and possibilities.

Let's replace fear with facts, stigma with understanding, and hopelessness with hope.

🩸 Sickle Cell Awareness Month
❤️ There is no expiry date on a human life.

Address

31 Giwa-Amu Street, , Off Airport Road
Bénin
23452

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+2348074403088

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