…. Leads Virtual Conference with Global Participants
By Bukayo AgboluajeÂ
The International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation was observed with great fervor during a virtual conference, uniting participants from Nigeria, Canada, and the UK.
Hosted by the VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION, a leading non-Profit organisation dedicated to addressing pressing societal issues, the event garnered significant attention from esteemed individuals and advocates worldwide.
Amb. Emamuzo Blessing Ogorure, President of the VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION and Eminent Peace Ambassador IAWPA with United Nations ECOSOC Special Consultative Status, delivered an impassioned opening remark reaffirming the foundation’s unwavering commitment to tackling challenges within its thematic areas, including education, health, and citizen resettlement and reintegration. Notable members of the board of trustees, including Mrs. Kathleen Alexis, Mrs. Nancy Ogorure, Mr. Gozie Jerry, and Mr. Ifeoluwa Kayode Fagbohun, graced the conference with their presence, underlining the collective determination to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
The conference featured enlightening presentations from distinguished speakers. DKF Chineze, a University of Lagos Pharmacy graduate, shed light on the profound impact of FGM on young girls, elucidating the four types of FGM and emphasizing its myriad disadvantages. Former UN Communication Specialist, Mrs. Omnia Elhaza, shared poignant insights from her experience, highlighting FGM as a pressing concern even within humanitarian efforts such as food distribution. Ozioko Chidiebere, Country Director of the VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION, eloquently elucidated on this year’s theme for the International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation: “Her Voice, Her Future,” emphasizing the imperative of supporting FGM survivors as catalysts for change.
In a pivotal moment, conference attendees collectively resolved to take concrete actions against FGM:
1. Establishment of a call center to provide support for FGM victims and survivors.
2. Collaborative efforts with other NGOs to engage religious and traditional leaders, addressing FGM entrenched in cultural practices.
3. Advocacy for the review of existing laws and policies related to FGM, advocating for stringent punishment for offenders.
4. Encouragement of a collective societal approach, recognizing the fight against FGM as a universal concern transcending gender boundaries.
The VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION reaffirms its commitment to championing causes that promote societal well-being and human dignity. As a humanitarian entity affiliated with The International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) and holding UN ECOSOC Special Consultative Status, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to create a more equitable and just world for all.
For more information about VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION and its initiatives, please visit www.tvfate.org or contact chidi@tvfate.org | Tel: +2348181828487.
OZIOKO E. CHIDIEBERE
COUNTRY DIRECTOR
VIDEN FATE FOUNDATION SOCIETY