With the assistance of a grant from the ACT Foundation, the WARIF’s Gate Keeper’s Initiative is being launched. The initiative aims to address the high incidence of rape and sexual violence in more rural areas across Lagos State through the education and training of Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) to recognize the signs and provide services that assist in the treatment and prevention of Gender Based Violence that occurs frequently in their communities.

Traditional Birth Attendants (TBA), also known as traditional midwives or community midwives are women who are regarded as pregnancy and childbirth care specialists and provide the majority of primary maternity care in many developing countries. Based on their experience and knowledge acquired informally through the traditions and practices of the communities where they originate, they are the first choice when it comes to healthcare for expectant mothers, women and their children in many rural areas as they are considered trusted members of their communities and are held in high regard.

With the high incidence of rape and sexual violence in these rural areas, a community-based approach to providing education and care to survivors is necessary. The Gatekeeper’s initiative will play a significant role in ensuring all Traditional Birth Attendants in the selected areas are educated and well equipped in addressing this problem.