By Seun Ibiyemi
The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) is participating in a high-level technical experts’ meeting in Banjul, The Gambia, as part of preparations for the upcoming Forum of First Ladies of SWEDD+ Countries on Zero Tolerance of Gender-Based Violence.
The meeting, held on April 8, 2026, brings together experts from SWEDD+ member states, regional institutions, and development partners to assess the regional situation of gender-based violence (GBV), identify persistent challenges, and harmonise priority actions for political consideration.
Deliberations are centred on regional trends, existing institutional responses, and coordination mechanisms across critical sectors, including health, justice, education, and social protection.
Organised through plenary sessions and thematic working groups, the meeting is seen as a crucial preparatory stage ahead of the high-level forum.
Speaking at the session, Felix Agbla, representing the Director General of WAHO, described gender-based violence as both a serious human rights violation and a major public health concern.
“Gender-based violence remains both a serious human rights violation and a major public health challenge, undermining gender equality and sustainable development in the region,” he said.
Agbla called for a transition from policy commitments to tangible actions, urging stakeholders to develop concrete, operational, and measurable solutions to address the crisis.
He also underscored the critical role of health systems in responding to GBV, particularly in ensuring integrated, accessible, and survivor-centred care for victims.
WAHO, he noted, continues to support member states through coordinated, multisectoral strategies involving health, justice, education, and social protection sectors, with a strong focus on accountability and effective implementation.
The meeting is expected to help align technical expertise and produce actionable recommendations that will guide discussions at the forthcoming forum of First Ladies, aimed at accelerating efforts to eliminate gender-based violence across West and Central Africa
