he Sexual Assault Referral Center (SARC), also known as “The Deborah House,” has been established in Owerri by Imo State’s first lady, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, in order to combat sexual abuse and gender-based violence.
The facility was officially launched on Friday, 25th November as part of the 16-day global campaign to stop gender-based violence, which runs from 25th November through 10th December, 2022.
In her speech, the first lady of Imo said “The Deborah House” would be a one-stop project that focuses on the needs and rights of sexual assault survivors.
She outlined the center’s programs, which include screening and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, care for underage victims of sex abuse and psychological therapy through support and counseling.
The provision of housing, general rehabilitation assistance and the availability of information and education to victims are additional initiatives.
She stated that the nation’s 36 First Ladies have joined forces to combat gender-based violence (GBV), and as a result, have adopted programs like the GBV Mitigation Action Plan, the GBV Coordinating Mechanism on Implementing the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, the GBV Survivors Funds and others.
The former Ekiti State governor’s wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, was thanked by Mrs. Uzodimma for employing the NIGWF to secure funding from the MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Access Bank, Procter & Gamble, among other sources.
Regarding the new Center, Mrs. Uzodimma stated that efforts are being made by her office to hire medical professionals including doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and lawyers, to provide the victims with medical and legal assistance.
In line with Governor Hope Uzodimma’s 3R mantra administration, which includes protecting Imo’s most vulnerable citizens, she also pleaded for the assistance of religious organizations, civil society organizations, volunteers and members of the general public to rid the society of the troubles afflicting it.
