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Niger

Articles by Niger

FON family photo
16 March 2023

Feminist Opportunities Now: Empowering Feminist Organizations Around the World

Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) is a programme that aims to build capacity of feminist organisations via subgrants to enhance more diverse and resilience Civil Society Organisations when addressing and responding to gender-based violence, inequalities, discrimination and other human rights violations related to gender. International Planned Parenthood Federation Africa Region (IPPFAR) is the FON consortium lead, with the other consortium partners being Médecins du Monde (MdM-FR), Creating Resources for Empowerment and Action Inc. (CREA), the International Federation on Human Rights (FIDH) and Empow’Her (EH). The programme is funded by the French Government via the French Development Agency (AFD). The action of the consortium's member organizations is based on feminist principles, a deep commitment to the promotion of human rights and the fight against inequalities and discrimination, especially against women and girls. They have a long experience of the themes of the programme mandates and complementary expertise that underpin the robustness of the holistic approach of the programme.   The Challenge  Gender inequalities on a global scale affect half of the world's population. Gender inequality is one of the main obstacles to human development. The FON Programme seeks to address such inequalities. Some of the challenges leading to these inequalities include: Lack of and/or effective implementation of comprehensive laws, policies, legal instruments to address gender inequalities worldwide, leading to increased gender inequalities. Lack of or limited implementation of the frameworks, which widens inequalities and aggravate the precariousness of women and girls- particularly people with disabilities, living with HIV, sex workers, and those of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI)  COVID-19 that dramatically exacerbated social and economic challenges leading to an increase in gender-based violence (GBV).  Inadequate involvement of people with disabilities (15% of the world's population), LGBTI+, sex workers and people living with HIV-AIDS, in initiatives to promote and defend their rights, and the least associated in preventing and responding to this violence. Inadequate support to nascent or relatively new Civil Society Organizations many of which remain undeclared, and, despite their effervescence and dynamism, they continue to face challenges that restrict their ability to reduce GBV and protect and promote women's rights. Limited creation of an innovative and flexible financing system in order to strengthen the contribution of CSOs in the South, in all their diversity, to the reduction of GBV. Objectives of the Programme  To Improve the sustainability of feminist Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at the organizational and technical levels by proposing an inclusive approach to capacity building.   To support the resilience and diversity of feminist CSOs through access to flexible sustainable financing mechanisms tailored to small and/or informal and/or marginalized CSOs. To strengthen a networked movement of feminist CSOs in the Global South, linking these CSOs and national, regional, and international networks, to make their voices heard on the public stage.     To promote innovation at all levels of the programme by the CSOs themselves and the consortium member organisations.   Targets of the Programme  Feminist CSOs working with and/or for the various structurally excluded groups. Activist organizations working with or led by people who may face particularly high discrimination. Gender inequalities and GBV, such as members of the LGBTI+ community and in general people with diverse sexual orientation and gender identities and Gender Expressions (SOGIE). People living with disabilities. People with HIV/AIDS.  Sex workers.  Indirectly, targets of advocacy activities (regional bodies, national / local authorities, etc)   Approaches of the Programme  Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) aims to build capacity of feminist organisations via subgrants to enhance more diverse and resilient Civil Society Organisations when addressing and responding to gender-based violence, inequalities, discrimination, and other human rights violations related to gender. FON will set up Regional Coordination and Advisory Committees in each region (Africa, Asia and Latin America), whose role will be to help ensure inclusiveness and identify advocacy opportunities. The Sub-granting will be phased into three categories or funding windows below, and for which the first call for proposals is scheduled to be launched in April 2023: Window 1 / "Boost" The objective is for the feminist CSOs or young feminists to have the enhanced capacity to face external events (political instability, insecurity, etc.) and/or internal hurdles (organisational difficulties, necessary a project co-funding or additional programme component etc.). This window should also allow CSOs to apply for a grant in case of an upcoming opportunity such as in programming, advocacy, etc. Key words are therefore flexibility and opportunity. Window 2/ "Programmatic & Organizational Development" will support small and middle-size CSOs and young feminists that are trying to grow from an organisational, technical and programmatic point of view. The objective is to simultaneously fund a programme while reinforcing the capacities of the recipient organizations programme. Window 3 / "Synergies" will fund networks, movements and alliances to implement advocacy activities on GBV, and organizations that want to get involved in existing networks.  It will promote network and alliance building and promote visibility on national, regional and international platforms.   Location Justification  Equity is a pillar integrated in the FON implementation strategy. The programme will be implemented in 10 countries including six in Africa (Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea, Kenya, and  potentially Niger), two in Latin America (Colombia and Mexico) and two in Asia (Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). FON put great consideration to determine the location of the implementation of the programme using below criteria: Countries where the needs of CSOs for support are strong and the potential for exchanges and collaborations is high. Existing normative and policy frameworks but little or no implementation and respect in national law. The needs of the populations are immense and in varying proportions from one country to another, also revealing a wide potential for learning and training. Contexts that exacerbate gender-based violence and increase the need for support for feminist CSOs. Potential for collaboration with other existing and/or new interventions.  To read more about the FON consortium partners' workshop, click here.  

FON cover 1

Feminist Opportunities Now (FON)

      CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The International Planned Parenthood Federation for Africa Region (IPPFAR) is pleased to announce a call for Expressions of Interest for interested organizations to become involved in their Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) programme, and join the Regional Coordination and Advisory Committee (RCAC), the advisory body that will to ensure inclusive and participatory governance of FON’s grant-making mechanism for feminist organizations across Africa: Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Guinea, the Ivory Coast, Kenya and potentially Niger.   Apply by 19 February 2023 More infos : https://bit.ly/3wJeV7o    

3M project
31 January 2022

Mes Droits, Ma Sante, Mon Avenir -3M

  The project seeks to contribute to the reduction of gender inequalities through the empowerment of youth and the technical strengthening of local feminist CSOs towards the transformation of gender norms in favour of the sexual rights of adolescents and youth. Budget:  899,996 EUR Donor: Fonds de Solidarité pour les Projets Innovants (FSPi) Timeline: 2 Years (April 2021 – March 2023) Project implementation areas: Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso Partners: Association Nigérienne pour le Bien Êtr  e Familial (ANBEF), Association Burkinabè pour le Bien Être Familial (ABBEF), Association Tchadienne pour le Bien Être Familial (ASTBEF) and Association Togolaise pour le Bien Être Familial (ATBEF) Key achievements to date: 3 Member Association (MA) supported through MA-to-MA support from ATBEF, More than 600 trainers of trainees trained in Gender and SRH, 100 Youth and feminist associations strengthened in local communities, The organisation of more than 200 community talks on SRHR and gender equality, supported by approaches and channels adapted to the beneficiaries, made it possible to reach 2,299 people, including 1,374 girls and 925 adolescent boys and young people, on unwanted pregnancies, family planning, STIs, HIV/AIDS and contraception. Innovative approaches: This project uses the MA-to-MA Approach, south-south collaboration & Peer to Peer support where ATBEF is supporting the 3 implementing MAs. Active collaboration with Youth and feminist associations at grassroot level. Lessons learned:  Public and private collaboration is critical as well as the need to document best practices. The involvement of the central level (Ministries) in the implementation of the project positively influences the operational levels and strengthens their commitment to the project activities and makes them feel more accountable. Also, collaboration with the health, education and gender departments has enabled the project teams to benefit from technical support for access to pupils, teachers, and parents, to have an orientation on current policies in relation to the projects, and to be accompanied in the training. 

Niger
18 November 2021

African Girls Summit 2021: IPPF reaffirms its commitment to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls

Organised by the African Union Commission, the African Girls' Summit aims to accelerate the realisation of girls' rights, including the elimination of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, early marriage, and breast-bandaging, as well as their rights to education and sexual and reproductive health. This is the third summit under this theme, the first edition having been held in Lusaka, Zambia from 26 to 27 November 2015, and the 2nd summit in Accra, Ghana from 21 to 24 November 2018. During the opening ceremony, the Representative of the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Violence against Children, Ms. Najat Maalla M'Jid, shared a strong message: "We must keep in mind that Africa's children and youth are Africa's capital, Africa's richest source of wealth, with a population that is growing and is expected to reach 830 million by 2050". In his speech, Niger’s Head of State, Mr. Mohamed Bazoum, said that the theme of the summit confirms "the commitment of African countries to work together for human development on the continent by relying in particular on women and youth.” According to him, "We have, through this meeting, the opportunity to analyse, monitor and better guide the actions of our States in terms of protection of the human rights of girls who constitute an important part of the population of our countries.”   IPPF participated through the intervention of its African Regional Director, Ms. Marie-Evelyne Pétrus-Barry, during two panels, respectively on the themes: "The impact of COVID-19 on women and girls: an integrated response" and "Young people engage with Member States to end harmful practices". During these exchanges, the Regional Director reaffirmed "IPPF's commitment to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, to protect their rights and to ensure the provision of and access to the services and information necessary to protect their health and well-being". She stressed the devastating impact of harmful practices on women's and girls' sexual and reproductive health, as well as their mental and psychosocial health: "Female genital mutilation and child marriage are both linked to high rates of maternal mortality and low use of family planning leading to unwanted pregnancies. They deprive women of the opportunity to be educated, to become imaginative, innovative and creative, to open up to new possibilities, and to enjoy the full benefits of decent work for themselves and their families.”   She also noted the work of its Member Associations in being innovative and resilient to the challenges of COVID-19. "They have, among other things, simultaneously developed telemedicine, door-to-door and their mobile clinics to meet the SRH needs of confined women, digitised sex education for young people deprived of school, etc." She also celebrated the work of young people and thanked them for their actions in promoting sexual and reproductive rights on the continent: "Thank you young women and men, thank you for all you are doing today, and for the many things you will still accomplish. I have great admiration for you, and I think I speak for many people of my age when I say that we admire you and are ready to learn from you.” It is IPPF's duty to support young people, especially young women and girls, and to give them all the support they need to realize and implement their collective commitments to sexual and reproductive rights. IPPF is, and will remain, at their side.  

NIGER
18 November 2021

Sommet des filles africaines 2021: l’IPPF réaffirme son engagement dans la lutte contre toute forme de violence à l'égard des femmes et des filles.

La Directrice régionale de la Fédération Internationale pour la Planification Familiale (IPPF) Afrique a activement pris part au au Sommet des filles Africaines à Niamey, au Niger, du 16 au 18 Novembre 2021.  Organisé par la Commission de l’Union Africaine, le Sommet des filles africaines vise à accélérer la réalisation de leurs droits, notamment l’élimination des pratiques néfastes - dont la mutilation génitale féminine, le mariage précoce ou encore le bandages des seins - mais aussi leurs droits à l’éducation et à la santé sexuelle et reproductive. Il s’agit du troisième sommet sur ce thème, la première édition s’étant tenue à Lusaka en Zambie du 26 au 27 Novembre 2015 et le 2ème sommet à Accra au Ghana du 21 au 24 Novembre 2018. Durant la cérémonie d’ouverture, la représentante de l’Envoyée spéciale du Secrétaire Général des Nations Unies sur les questions de violences contre les enfants, Mme Najat Maalla M’Jid, a partagé un message fort : « nous devons garder à l’esprit que les enfants et les jeunes d’Afrique représentent un capital, constituent la source la plus riche d’Afrique, avec une population qui ne cesse d'accroître et qui devrait atteindre 830 millions d’ici 2050». Dans son allocution, le Chef d’Etat du Niger, Mohamed Bazoum a, quant à lui, affirmé que la thématique du sommet confirme « l’engagement des pays africains à œuvrer solidairement pour le développement humain sur le continent en s’appuyant en particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes ». Selon lui, « Nous avons donc, à travers cette rencontre, l’occasion d’analyser, de suivre et de mieux orienter les actions de nos Etats en matière de protection des droits humains des filles qui constituent une frange importante de la population de nos pays ». L’IPPF a pour sa part marqué sa participation à travers l’intervention de la Directrice régionale pour l’Afrique, Mme Marie-Evelyne Pétrus-Barry lors de deux panels, consacrés respectivement aux thèmes: "L’impact de la COVID-19 sur les femmes et les filles: une réponse intégrée" et "Les jeunes s'engagent auprès des États membres pour mettre fin aux pratiques néfastes". Lors de ces échanges, la directrice régionale a réaffirmé « l’engagement de l’IPPF à poursuivre la lutte contre toute forme de violence à l'égard des femmes et des filles, de protéger leurs droits et de garantir la fourniture et l'accès aux services et aux informations nécessaires à la protection de leur santé et de leur bien-être ».  Elle a tenu a souligner l’impact dévastateur des pratiques néfastes sur la santé sexuelle et reproductive des femmes et des filles, ainsi que sur leur santé mentale et psychosociale: “Les mutilations génitales féminines et les mariages d'enfants sont tous deux liés à des taux élevés de mortalité maternelle et à un faible recours à la planification familiale amenant à des grossesses non désirées. Ils privent les femmes de la possibilité d'être éduquées, de devenir des êtres imaginatifs, novateurs et créatifs, de s'ouvrir à de nouvelles possibilités et de profiter, elles et leurs familles, de tous les avantages qu'apporte un emploi décent”.  Elle a également relevé le travail abattu par ses associations membres en matière d’innovation et de capacité de résilience face aux défis de la COVID-19 . « Elles ont, entre autres, développé simultanément la télémédecine, le porte-à-porte et leurs cliniques mobiles pour répondre aux besoins des femmes confinées en matière de SSR, numérisé l'éducation sexuelle pour les jeunes privés d’école, etc. »  Elle a enfin tenu à célébrer l’action des jeunes et à les remercier pour leurs actions en faveur des droits sexuels et reproductifs sur le continent: “Merci jeunes femmes et jeunes hommes, merci pour tout ce que vous faites aujourd’hui, et pour les nombreuses choses que vous allez encore accomplir. Je vous adresse ma grande admiration et je pense que je parle au nom de nombreuses personnes de mon âge lorsque je dis que nous vous admirons et que nous sommes prêts à recevoir votre enseignement”.  Il est du devoir de l’IPPF d’appuyer les jeunes, notamment les jeunes femmes et filles, et de leur apporter tout le soutien dont ils ont besoin pour concrétiser et mettre en action leurs engagements collectifs en faveur des droits sexuels et reproductifs. L’IPPF est et restera à leurs côtés. 

IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou
16 December 2015

Parliamentarians are Key to Realizing Demographic Dividend in Africa

African parliamentarians must seek ways of mobilizing resources to fund the demographic dividend agenda in their countries. This is according to the IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, who made these remarks during the closing ceremony of a two-day capacity building workshop for African Parliamentarians held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 14 – 15 December 2015. The meeting, attended by 13 legislators drawn from the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), was aimed at enhancing the legislators' understanding of the concept of the ‘Demographic Dividend’, and their role in moving forward related agenda. The demographic dividend refers to the accelerated economic growth initiated by a rapid decline in fertility and mortality, and which results in a change of the age structure in the population –from one dominated by child dependents to one driven by an economically productive adult workforce. “Harnessing the demographic dividend is fundamental to Africa’s development. A demographic shift in any population is important because of it's direct bearing to among others: economic growth, education levels, poverty levels and the health and well-being of a nation. The current demographic transition in Africa is one that has the ability to steer the next surge of economic growth - with a population characterized by healthier and more educated youth, and who will have greater access to the labour force and economic markets. African leaders therefore need to put in place measures that will ensure that the continent harnesses the dividend from Africa’s youthful population,” he said. A new report from the World Bank reveals that government policies and other related actions undertaken today will increase the likelihood of harnessing various economic and social benefits of demographic change. “Parliamentarians are instrumental in this process, as they are the ones involved in the formulation of policies and legislations. When a country has the right set of policies in place, it is better placed to reap the benefits of a demographic change, hence the need to involve Members of Parliament in all conversations around the demographic dividend. There is no doubt that the demographic dividend can be achieved in Africa, if the right policies are instituted,” said Mr. Kouakou. The capacity building initiative for the African legislators, organized by IPPF and UNFPA and themed: "Moving the Demographic Dividend Agenda: from Ideas to Actions", established a harmonized understanding of the demographic dividend among the MPs, and helped define their level of engagement in advancing this agenda in their countries. A clear roadmap for moving forward the demographic dividend agenda at both regional and national levels was developed during the forum. Members of parliament who attended the forum included: Hon. Chris Baryomunsi (Uganda), Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa (Cameroon), Hon. Jose Manuel Tavares Sanches (Cape Verde), Hon. Mbaidessemel Dionadiji (Chad), Hon. Zalikatou Diallo (Guinea Conakry), Hon. Larry Younquoi (Liberia), Hon. Illa Ousmane (Niger), Hon. Helen Kuyembeh (Sierra Leone), Hon. Dlamini Princess Phumelele (Swaziland), Hon. Highvie Hamdudu (Zambia), Hon. Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman (Nigeria), Hon. Ahmed Babou Babah (Mauritania) and Hon. Sado Nazaire (Benin). In his speech, Mr. Kouakou called on the MPs to take a lead role in mobilizing resources that will ensure that the demographic dividend will be realized in their countries. “Parliamentarians can influence their colleagues and garner their support for the formulation of policies and legislations, specifically those related to population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to respective institutions, such as the Ministries of Planning and Development, The Ministries of Health and Education, as well as institutions that focus on the youth. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Members of Parliament have an unmatched role in steering development in their countries,” he said. Mr. Kouakou further urged the legislators to take advantage of the resource that is partners who have a presence in the region, such as IPPF and UNFPA – entities that are committed to Africa’s growth. Development partners, if convinced that the demographic dividend is key to the growth of the region, will definitely assist in different ways, including offering technical assistance, capacity building and mobilization of resources, he said. “IPPF and UNFPA are committed to this agenda, and are working in collaboration with the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA) to implement a programme that will ensure that all African countries are on track to realizing the demographic dividend. The project is initially slated for implementation in the six countries of Mauritania, Ivory Coast, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad, with more countries being incorporated in the coming years. We are keen on ensuring that no country is left behind,” he said. The Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), which was established in 2012, seeks to exchange and coordinate action in support of the ICPD Beyond 2014. FPA also seeks to ensure that parliamentarians assist in the implementation of the ICPD Beyond 2014 Agenda by adopting initiatives in population policies, as well as harmonisation of African legislation on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). At the Abidjan General Assembly meeting in 2014, FPA reaffirmed its purpose as a regional body established to drive the agenda on population and development at both the national and regional levels.

Association Nigérienne pour le Bien-Etre Familial

Since 1996, the Association Nigérienne pour le Bien-Etre Familial's (ANBEF) have been providing a comprehensive range of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs and issues including the prevention and management of HIV and AIDS, antenatal and post-natal care, the provision of post-abortion care in clinics and health huts in rural areas, treatment of male and female infertility, and pre-marital counselling. Importantly, the Member Association also trains young people in income-generating activities.

ANBEF reaches out to rural and hard-to-reach communities, including street children, sex workers, vulnerable young people and rural populations.  Services are delivered by a team of permanent staff, hundreds of volunteers, peer educators and community-based distributors (CBDs).

Given that a very high proportion of 15-19 year olds give birth, and risks of maternal death and rates of child mortality are among the highest in the world, ANBEF fulfils a critical need in Niger that is not met by the private sector or government providers.

ANBEF’s expertise has been called upon by the Niger government’s Technical Committee for the development of the national IPCD+10 (International Conference on Population and Development) strategy. The Member Association works with non-governmental organizations including CARE International and FCI Partnerships, and it receives funding from UNFPA and Multisector Programmes (IDA/World Bank). ANBEF works closely with other specialist population, planning, youth, HIV and AIDS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) groups in Niger.

FON family photo
16 March 2023

Feminist Opportunities Now: Empowering Feminist Organizations Around the World

Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) is a programme that aims to build capacity of feminist organisations via subgrants to enhance more diverse and resilience Civil Society Organisations when addressing and responding to gender-based violence, inequalities, discrimination and other human rights violations related to gender. International Planned Parenthood Federation Africa Region (IPPFAR) is the FON consortium lead, with the other consortium partners being Médecins du Monde (MdM-FR), Creating Resources for Empowerment and Action Inc. (CREA), the International Federation on Human Rights (FIDH) and Empow’Her (EH). The programme is funded by the French Government via the French Development Agency (AFD). The action of the consortium's member organizations is based on feminist principles, a deep commitment to the promotion of human rights and the fight against inequalities and discrimination, especially against women and girls. They have a long experience of the themes of the programme mandates and complementary expertise that underpin the robustness of the holistic approach of the programme.   The Challenge  Gender inequalities on a global scale affect half of the world's population. Gender inequality is one of the main obstacles to human development. The FON Programme seeks to address such inequalities. Some of the challenges leading to these inequalities include: Lack of and/or effective implementation of comprehensive laws, policies, legal instruments to address gender inequalities worldwide, leading to increased gender inequalities. Lack of or limited implementation of the frameworks, which widens inequalities and aggravate the precariousness of women and girls- particularly people with disabilities, living with HIV, sex workers, and those of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI)  COVID-19 that dramatically exacerbated social and economic challenges leading to an increase in gender-based violence (GBV).  Inadequate involvement of people with disabilities (15% of the world's population), LGBTI+, sex workers and people living with HIV-AIDS, in initiatives to promote and defend their rights, and the least associated in preventing and responding to this violence. Inadequate support to nascent or relatively new Civil Society Organizations many of which remain undeclared, and, despite their effervescence and dynamism, they continue to face challenges that restrict their ability to reduce GBV and protect and promote women's rights. Limited creation of an innovative and flexible financing system in order to strengthen the contribution of CSOs in the South, in all their diversity, to the reduction of GBV. Objectives of the Programme  To Improve the sustainability of feminist Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at the organizational and technical levels by proposing an inclusive approach to capacity building.   To support the resilience and diversity of feminist CSOs through access to flexible sustainable financing mechanisms tailored to small and/or informal and/or marginalized CSOs. To strengthen a networked movement of feminist CSOs in the Global South, linking these CSOs and national, regional, and international networks, to make their voices heard on the public stage.     To promote innovation at all levels of the programme by the CSOs themselves and the consortium member organisations.   Targets of the Programme  Feminist CSOs working with and/or for the various structurally excluded groups. Activist organizations working with or led by people who may face particularly high discrimination. Gender inequalities and GBV, such as members of the LGBTI+ community and in general people with diverse sexual orientation and gender identities and Gender Expressions (SOGIE). People living with disabilities. People with HIV/AIDS.  Sex workers.  Indirectly, targets of advocacy activities (regional bodies, national / local authorities, etc)   Approaches of the Programme  Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) aims to build capacity of feminist organisations via subgrants to enhance more diverse and resilient Civil Society Organisations when addressing and responding to gender-based violence, inequalities, discrimination, and other human rights violations related to gender. FON will set up Regional Coordination and Advisory Committees in each region (Africa, Asia and Latin America), whose role will be to help ensure inclusiveness and identify advocacy opportunities. The Sub-granting will be phased into three categories or funding windows below, and for which the first call for proposals is scheduled to be launched in April 2023: Window 1 / "Boost" The objective is for the feminist CSOs or young feminists to have the enhanced capacity to face external events (political instability, insecurity, etc.) and/or internal hurdles (organisational difficulties, necessary a project co-funding or additional programme component etc.). This window should also allow CSOs to apply for a grant in case of an upcoming opportunity such as in programming, advocacy, etc. Key words are therefore flexibility and opportunity. Window 2/ "Programmatic & Organizational Development" will support small and middle-size CSOs and young feminists that are trying to grow from an organisational, technical and programmatic point of view. The objective is to simultaneously fund a programme while reinforcing the capacities of the recipient organizations programme. Window 3 / "Synergies" will fund networks, movements and alliances to implement advocacy activities on GBV, and organizations that want to get involved in existing networks.  It will promote network and alliance building and promote visibility on national, regional and international platforms.   Location Justification  Equity is a pillar integrated in the FON implementation strategy. The programme will be implemented in 10 countries including six in Africa (Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea, Kenya, and  potentially Niger), two in Latin America (Colombia and Mexico) and two in Asia (Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). FON put great consideration to determine the location of the implementation of the programme using below criteria: Countries where the needs of CSOs for support are strong and the potential for exchanges and collaborations is high. Existing normative and policy frameworks but little or no implementation and respect in national law. The needs of the populations are immense and in varying proportions from one country to another, also revealing a wide potential for learning and training. Contexts that exacerbate gender-based violence and increase the need for support for feminist CSOs. Potential for collaboration with other existing and/or new interventions.  To read more about the FON consortium partners' workshop, click here.  

FON cover 1

Feminist Opportunities Now (FON)

      CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The International Planned Parenthood Federation for Africa Region (IPPFAR) is pleased to announce a call for Expressions of Interest for interested organizations to become involved in their Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) programme, and join the Regional Coordination and Advisory Committee (RCAC), the advisory body that will to ensure inclusive and participatory governance of FON’s grant-making mechanism for feminist organizations across Africa: Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Guinea, the Ivory Coast, Kenya and potentially Niger.   Apply by 19 February 2023 More infos : https://bit.ly/3wJeV7o    

3M project
31 January 2022

Mes Droits, Ma Sante, Mon Avenir -3M

  The project seeks to contribute to the reduction of gender inequalities through the empowerment of youth and the technical strengthening of local feminist CSOs towards the transformation of gender norms in favour of the sexual rights of adolescents and youth. Budget:  899,996 EUR Donor: Fonds de Solidarité pour les Projets Innovants (FSPi) Timeline: 2 Years (April 2021 – March 2023) Project implementation areas: Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso Partners: Association Nigérienne pour le Bien Êtr  e Familial (ANBEF), Association Burkinabè pour le Bien Être Familial (ABBEF), Association Tchadienne pour le Bien Être Familial (ASTBEF) and Association Togolaise pour le Bien Être Familial (ATBEF) Key achievements to date: 3 Member Association (MA) supported through MA-to-MA support from ATBEF, More than 600 trainers of trainees trained in Gender and SRH, 100 Youth and feminist associations strengthened in local communities, The organisation of more than 200 community talks on SRHR and gender equality, supported by approaches and channels adapted to the beneficiaries, made it possible to reach 2,299 people, including 1,374 girls and 925 adolescent boys and young people, on unwanted pregnancies, family planning, STIs, HIV/AIDS and contraception. Innovative approaches: This project uses the MA-to-MA Approach, south-south collaboration & Peer to Peer support where ATBEF is supporting the 3 implementing MAs. Active collaboration with Youth and feminist associations at grassroot level. Lessons learned:  Public and private collaboration is critical as well as the need to document best practices. The involvement of the central level (Ministries) in the implementation of the project positively influences the operational levels and strengthens their commitment to the project activities and makes them feel more accountable. Also, collaboration with the health, education and gender departments has enabled the project teams to benefit from technical support for access to pupils, teachers, and parents, to have an orientation on current policies in relation to the projects, and to be accompanied in the training. 

Niger
18 November 2021

African Girls Summit 2021: IPPF reaffirms its commitment to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls

Organised by the African Union Commission, the African Girls' Summit aims to accelerate the realisation of girls' rights, including the elimination of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation, early marriage, and breast-bandaging, as well as their rights to education and sexual and reproductive health. This is the third summit under this theme, the first edition having been held in Lusaka, Zambia from 26 to 27 November 2015, and the 2nd summit in Accra, Ghana from 21 to 24 November 2018. During the opening ceremony, the Representative of the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Violence against Children, Ms. Najat Maalla M'Jid, shared a strong message: "We must keep in mind that Africa's children and youth are Africa's capital, Africa's richest source of wealth, with a population that is growing and is expected to reach 830 million by 2050". In his speech, Niger’s Head of State, Mr. Mohamed Bazoum, said that the theme of the summit confirms "the commitment of African countries to work together for human development on the continent by relying in particular on women and youth.” According to him, "We have, through this meeting, the opportunity to analyse, monitor and better guide the actions of our States in terms of protection of the human rights of girls who constitute an important part of the population of our countries.”   IPPF participated through the intervention of its African Regional Director, Ms. Marie-Evelyne Pétrus-Barry, during two panels, respectively on the themes: "The impact of COVID-19 on women and girls: an integrated response" and "Young people engage with Member States to end harmful practices". During these exchanges, the Regional Director reaffirmed "IPPF's commitment to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, to protect their rights and to ensure the provision of and access to the services and information necessary to protect their health and well-being". She stressed the devastating impact of harmful practices on women's and girls' sexual and reproductive health, as well as their mental and psychosocial health: "Female genital mutilation and child marriage are both linked to high rates of maternal mortality and low use of family planning leading to unwanted pregnancies. They deprive women of the opportunity to be educated, to become imaginative, innovative and creative, to open up to new possibilities, and to enjoy the full benefits of decent work for themselves and their families.”   She also noted the work of its Member Associations in being innovative and resilient to the challenges of COVID-19. "They have, among other things, simultaneously developed telemedicine, door-to-door and their mobile clinics to meet the SRH needs of confined women, digitised sex education for young people deprived of school, etc." She also celebrated the work of young people and thanked them for their actions in promoting sexual and reproductive rights on the continent: "Thank you young women and men, thank you for all you are doing today, and for the many things you will still accomplish. I have great admiration for you, and I think I speak for many people of my age when I say that we admire you and are ready to learn from you.” It is IPPF's duty to support young people, especially young women and girls, and to give them all the support they need to realize and implement their collective commitments to sexual and reproductive rights. IPPF is, and will remain, at their side.  

NIGER
18 November 2021

Sommet des filles africaines 2021: l’IPPF réaffirme son engagement dans la lutte contre toute forme de violence à l'égard des femmes et des filles.

La Directrice régionale de la Fédération Internationale pour la Planification Familiale (IPPF) Afrique a activement pris part au au Sommet des filles Africaines à Niamey, au Niger, du 16 au 18 Novembre 2021.  Organisé par la Commission de l’Union Africaine, le Sommet des filles africaines vise à accélérer la réalisation de leurs droits, notamment l’élimination des pratiques néfastes - dont la mutilation génitale féminine, le mariage précoce ou encore le bandages des seins - mais aussi leurs droits à l’éducation et à la santé sexuelle et reproductive. Il s’agit du troisième sommet sur ce thème, la première édition s’étant tenue à Lusaka en Zambie du 26 au 27 Novembre 2015 et le 2ème sommet à Accra au Ghana du 21 au 24 Novembre 2018. Durant la cérémonie d’ouverture, la représentante de l’Envoyée spéciale du Secrétaire Général des Nations Unies sur les questions de violences contre les enfants, Mme Najat Maalla M’Jid, a partagé un message fort : « nous devons garder à l’esprit que les enfants et les jeunes d’Afrique représentent un capital, constituent la source la plus riche d’Afrique, avec une population qui ne cesse d'accroître et qui devrait atteindre 830 millions d’ici 2050». Dans son allocution, le Chef d’Etat du Niger, Mohamed Bazoum a, quant à lui, affirmé que la thématique du sommet confirme « l’engagement des pays africains à œuvrer solidairement pour le développement humain sur le continent en s’appuyant en particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes ». Selon lui, « Nous avons donc, à travers cette rencontre, l’occasion d’analyser, de suivre et de mieux orienter les actions de nos Etats en matière de protection des droits humains des filles qui constituent une frange importante de la population de nos pays ». L’IPPF a pour sa part marqué sa participation à travers l’intervention de la Directrice régionale pour l’Afrique, Mme Marie-Evelyne Pétrus-Barry lors de deux panels, consacrés respectivement aux thèmes: "L’impact de la COVID-19 sur les femmes et les filles: une réponse intégrée" et "Les jeunes s'engagent auprès des États membres pour mettre fin aux pratiques néfastes". Lors de ces échanges, la directrice régionale a réaffirmé « l’engagement de l’IPPF à poursuivre la lutte contre toute forme de violence à l'égard des femmes et des filles, de protéger leurs droits et de garantir la fourniture et l'accès aux services et aux informations nécessaires à la protection de leur santé et de leur bien-être ».  Elle a tenu a souligner l’impact dévastateur des pratiques néfastes sur la santé sexuelle et reproductive des femmes et des filles, ainsi que sur leur santé mentale et psychosociale: “Les mutilations génitales féminines et les mariages d'enfants sont tous deux liés à des taux élevés de mortalité maternelle et à un faible recours à la planification familiale amenant à des grossesses non désirées. Ils privent les femmes de la possibilité d'être éduquées, de devenir des êtres imaginatifs, novateurs et créatifs, de s'ouvrir à de nouvelles possibilités et de profiter, elles et leurs familles, de tous les avantages qu'apporte un emploi décent”.  Elle a également relevé le travail abattu par ses associations membres en matière d’innovation et de capacité de résilience face aux défis de la COVID-19 . « Elles ont, entre autres, développé simultanément la télémédecine, le porte-à-porte et leurs cliniques mobiles pour répondre aux besoins des femmes confinées en matière de SSR, numérisé l'éducation sexuelle pour les jeunes privés d’école, etc. »  Elle a enfin tenu à célébrer l’action des jeunes et à les remercier pour leurs actions en faveur des droits sexuels et reproductifs sur le continent: “Merci jeunes femmes et jeunes hommes, merci pour tout ce que vous faites aujourd’hui, et pour les nombreuses choses que vous allez encore accomplir. Je vous adresse ma grande admiration et je pense que je parle au nom de nombreuses personnes de mon âge lorsque je dis que nous vous admirons et que nous sommes prêts à recevoir votre enseignement”.  Il est du devoir de l’IPPF d’appuyer les jeunes, notamment les jeunes femmes et filles, et de leur apporter tout le soutien dont ils ont besoin pour concrétiser et mettre en action leurs engagements collectifs en faveur des droits sexuels et reproductifs. L’IPPF est et restera à leurs côtés. 

IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou
16 December 2015

Parliamentarians are Key to Realizing Demographic Dividend in Africa

African parliamentarians must seek ways of mobilizing resources to fund the demographic dividend agenda in their countries. This is according to the IPPF Africa Region Director Mr. Lucien Kouakou, who made these remarks during the closing ceremony of a two-day capacity building workshop for African Parliamentarians held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 14 – 15 December 2015. The meeting, attended by 13 legislators drawn from the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), was aimed at enhancing the legislators' understanding of the concept of the ‘Demographic Dividend’, and their role in moving forward related agenda. The demographic dividend refers to the accelerated economic growth initiated by a rapid decline in fertility and mortality, and which results in a change of the age structure in the population –from one dominated by child dependents to one driven by an economically productive adult workforce. “Harnessing the demographic dividend is fundamental to Africa’s development. A demographic shift in any population is important because of it's direct bearing to among others: economic growth, education levels, poverty levels and the health and well-being of a nation. The current demographic transition in Africa is one that has the ability to steer the next surge of economic growth - with a population characterized by healthier and more educated youth, and who will have greater access to the labour force and economic markets. African leaders therefore need to put in place measures that will ensure that the continent harnesses the dividend from Africa’s youthful population,” he said. A new report from the World Bank reveals that government policies and other related actions undertaken today will increase the likelihood of harnessing various economic and social benefits of demographic change. “Parliamentarians are instrumental in this process, as they are the ones involved in the formulation of policies and legislations. When a country has the right set of policies in place, it is better placed to reap the benefits of a demographic change, hence the need to involve Members of Parliament in all conversations around the demographic dividend. There is no doubt that the demographic dividend can be achieved in Africa, if the right policies are instituted,” said Mr. Kouakou. The capacity building initiative for the African legislators, organized by IPPF and UNFPA and themed: "Moving the Demographic Dividend Agenda: from Ideas to Actions", established a harmonized understanding of the demographic dividend among the MPs, and helped define their level of engagement in advancing this agenda in their countries. A clear roadmap for moving forward the demographic dividend agenda at both regional and national levels was developed during the forum. Members of parliament who attended the forum included: Hon. Chris Baryomunsi (Uganda), Hon. Marie-Rose Nguini Effa (Cameroon), Hon. Jose Manuel Tavares Sanches (Cape Verde), Hon. Mbaidessemel Dionadiji (Chad), Hon. Zalikatou Diallo (Guinea Conakry), Hon. Larry Younquoi (Liberia), Hon. Illa Ousmane (Niger), Hon. Helen Kuyembeh (Sierra Leone), Hon. Dlamini Princess Phumelele (Swaziland), Hon. Highvie Hamdudu (Zambia), Hon. Nurudeen Abatemi-Usman (Nigeria), Hon. Ahmed Babou Babah (Mauritania) and Hon. Sado Nazaire (Benin). In his speech, Mr. Kouakou called on the MPs to take a lead role in mobilizing resources that will ensure that the demographic dividend will be realized in their countries. “Parliamentarians can influence their colleagues and garner their support for the formulation of policies and legislations, specifically those related to population and development. They can call for more budgetary allocation to respective institutions, such as the Ministries of Planning and Development, The Ministries of Health and Education, as well as institutions that focus on the youth. They can also take the lead in seeking innovative ways of mobilizing resources at the local level that would champion population and related issues. Members of Parliament have an unmatched role in steering development in their countries,” he said. Mr. Kouakou further urged the legislators to take advantage of the resource that is partners who have a presence in the region, such as IPPF and UNFPA – entities that are committed to Africa’s growth. Development partners, if convinced that the demographic dividend is key to the growth of the region, will definitely assist in different ways, including offering technical assistance, capacity building and mobilization of resources, he said. “IPPF and UNFPA are committed to this agenda, and are working in collaboration with the Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA) to implement a programme that will ensure that all African countries are on track to realizing the demographic dividend. The project is initially slated for implementation in the six countries of Mauritania, Ivory Coast, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad, with more countries being incorporated in the coming years. We are keen on ensuring that no country is left behind,” he said. The Africa Parliamentary Forum on Population and Development (FPA), which was established in 2012, seeks to exchange and coordinate action in support of the ICPD Beyond 2014. FPA also seeks to ensure that parliamentarians assist in the implementation of the ICPD Beyond 2014 Agenda by adopting initiatives in population policies, as well as harmonisation of African legislation on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). At the Abidjan General Assembly meeting in 2014, FPA reaffirmed its purpose as a regional body established to drive the agenda on population and development at both the national and regional levels.

Association Nigérienne pour le Bien-Etre Familial

Since 1996, the Association Nigérienne pour le Bien-Etre Familial's (ANBEF) have been providing a comprehensive range of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs and issues including the prevention and management of HIV and AIDS, antenatal and post-natal care, the provision of post-abortion care in clinics and health huts in rural areas, treatment of male and female infertility, and pre-marital counselling. Importantly, the Member Association also trains young people in income-generating activities.

ANBEF reaches out to rural and hard-to-reach communities, including street children, sex workers, vulnerable young people and rural populations.  Services are delivered by a team of permanent staff, hundreds of volunteers, peer educators and community-based distributors (CBDs).

Given that a very high proportion of 15-19 year olds give birth, and risks of maternal death and rates of child mortality are among the highest in the world, ANBEF fulfils a critical need in Niger that is not met by the private sector or government providers.

ANBEF’s expertise has been called upon by the Niger government’s Technical Committee for the development of the national IPCD+10 (International Conference on Population and Development) strategy. The Member Association works with non-governmental organizations including CARE International and FCI Partnerships, and it receives funding from UNFPA and Multisector Programmes (IDA/World Bank). ANBEF works closely with other specialist population, planning, youth, HIV and AIDS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) groups in Niger.