As part of our ongoing initiative, Amplifying Rural Voices: Sustaining Advocacy for the Rights of Women and Girls, led by Shafuwa Adam, Sung Foundation (SUFOD) successfully hosted two impactful community durbars in the Tolon and Kumbungu Districts in July 2025. Held under the theme Promoting the Rights and Safety of Women and Girls: Ending Sexual Violence and Harmful Practices, these gatherings united traditional leaders, community members, and institutional stakeholders to engage in candid dialogue on gender-based violence (GBV), child marriage, and women’s rights.
In Tolon, the durbar was chaired by Gburimani Lana, representing the Overlord of Tolon, alongside the Chief of Woribogu and other local leaders. In Kumbungu, Gumo Lana presided on behalf of the Chief of Kumbungu, supported by a delegation of district chiefs.
Speakers reiterated the urgency of eliminating GBV, early marriage, and teenage pregnancy. They called for stronger referral systems, increased community awareness, and deeper cultural transformation. Importantly, these conversations were not one-sided. Rural women shared deeply personal experiences, ranging from fear of spiritual backlash when reporting abuse to the challenges of keeping girls in school and safe from early marriage. Their stories underscored the pressing need for culturally sensitive, sustained engagement at all levels.
Hajia Fati Seidu Tambro, Executive Director of SUFOD, urged traditional authorities to adopt long-term strategies that elevate rural women’s voices, promote gender equality, and dismantle harmful cultural practices. She also encouraged parents and religious leaders to build girls’ confidence and raise boys to become protectors—not perpetrators.
Mr. Abdul-Lateef Abubakar from the Department of Gender in the Northern Region emphasized the importance of education and empowerment. He echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of education in community development and poverty reduction. He called on parents and chiefs to prioritize education for all children and empower women and girls to speak up against abuse.
ASP Mrs. Vincentia Aboagye and her team from DOVVSU emphasized the widespread nature of physical and sexual violence and the need for community leaders to ensure justice and enforce legal protections for survivors. They provided education on domestic violence and pledged institutional support to survivors.
The durbars represented a meaningful step forward in SUFOD’s mission to foster grassroots-led advocacy. By centering the voices and realities of rural women, the Amplifying Rural Voices initiative continues to shape policies and practices that protect rights, uphold dignity, and drive long-term, community-driven progress.
