Dear Donors,
We sincerely thank the donors who have already supported the Stop Sexual Abuse of Widows Through Dialogue project. Your generosity shows care for women who endure mistreatment after losing their husbands. However, the donations received so far are not sufficient to begin full community outreach activities. More support is needed to move forward.
In several rural communities, widows face abuse, isolation, and harmful traditional practices. Some are pressured into sexual relations with relatives. Others are subjected to degrading rituals or forced into periods of confinement. Many widows cannot read or write, and few understand their legal rights. Fear, stigma, and cultural expectations prevent them from speaking out.
Because these practices are sometimes treated as normal within communities, widows often suffer in silence. Without accessible information or trusted support systems, abuse continues unchecked.
This project will organize small group meetings with 300 widows in their villages. Discussions will be held in local languages using simple explanations, pictures, and storytelling. Women will learn about personal safety, dignity, and where to seek help if they face abuse. Selected widows will receive basic training to support others within their communities.
Community leaders, elders, and local influencers will also be invited to participate in dialogue sessions. These conversations will focus on the impact of harmful practices and encourage safer, more respectful treatment of widows.
By increasing awareness and encouraging open discussion, widows can gain confidence to speak up and seek assistance. Trained peer supporters will remain within the villages to continue guiding others.
While we appreciate the support received so far, additional funding is required before outreach can begin fully. We kindly invite more donors to help protect widows from abuse and harmful customs.
Sincerely,
Joy Ojochogwu Etubi
Project Leader
