Voice of Women: Can Conscientisation Process Reduce Gender-based Violence: A Case Study of ADRA Project in Cibitoke Province.

Abstract

NTWARI JEAN NOËL (2010-M093-10033) Voice of Women: Can Conscientisation Process Reduce Gender-based Violence: A Case Study of ADRA Project in Cibitoke Province. The study was about assessing how conscientisation can reduce gender-based violence in Cibitoke province, Burundi. The experience was drawn from ADRA project. This study was guided by three objectives, namely: to find out ways how the process of conscientisation has enabled community members to become more free to discuss domestic violence in their community; to assess to which extent the process has ameliorated dialogue through radio programmes on sexual abuse; and, if women feel more confident in their ability to reduce social subordination in their community in Rugombo and Buganda Commune. The study reviewed literature according to the themes that were derived from the objectives of the study. Methodologically, the study used a case study design and administered questionnaires and focus group discussions with 20 women and men in the community as well as 40 members of ADRA project beneficiaries grouped in listening clubs. The study findings revealed that women still feel disadvantaged as a result of domestic violence. The radio programmes have offered a great opportunity for dialogue around sexual abuse but have not been able to challenge social structure and reduce cases of sexual abuse. The project still needs more efforts to empower women so that they can feel more confident in their ability to reduce social subordination. The later also largely depends on access to financial resources that undermine patriarchy and male supremacy in decision making. The research work recommends building on and sustaining dialogue between Women and Men as an additional way to reduce gender-based violence. Key Words: Voice, Women, Gender-based Violence.