The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has urged traditional rulers in Kano State to take a more active role in engaging men in efforts to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in their communities.
Officials of the Centre made the appeal on Monday during an advocacy visit to the Rano Emirate Council under its Male Feminist Network (MFN) Project.
Speaking during the visit, the Project Officer of the MFN, Mr. Sani Sa’idu, said the campaign was designed to ensure that men, who are often perceived as perpetrators, become key partners in promoting gender equality and peaceful coexistence.
Sa’idu explained that the project, supported by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD), seeks to strengthen collaboration with traditional institutions to address harmful social norms that promote violence against women and girls.
“We believe that ending gender-based violence is not a women-only struggle; men must be part of the solution. Our approach is to engage male traditional leaders, religious figures, and community influencers to drive change from within,” he said.
According to him, traditional rulers play a critical role in shaping attitudes and behaviours in their communities, hence the need for their involvement in spreading messages of respect, equality, and non-violence.
Responding, the Emir of Rano, Alhaji Dr. Muhammad Isah Umaru, commended CITAD for the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary in view of the rising cases of gender-related violence.
He said the Rano Emirate Council would continue to partner with relevant organisations to ensure that men understood their roles in protecting women and girls.
“Ending gender-based violence is a collective responsibility. As custodians of tradition, we will continue to promote values of respect, dignity, and protection for all women and girls across the emirate,” the Emir said.