2005-2006 IFENDU ANNUAL REPORT
2005-2006 IFENDU Annual Report IFENDU FOR WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT Educating for Gender Equality, transforming community, that all may have life and live it to the full IFENDU FOR WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT ABOUT US NAME: Ifendu for Women’s Development ACRONYM: IFENDU MOTTO: That women may have life and live it to the full ADDRESS: No. 1 Ihiala Avenue City Layout, New Haven P.O. Box 9677, Enugu Enugu State, 400001 Nigeria TELEPHONE: +234-803-471-8951 E-MAIL: ifendu52@yahoo.com nkeonyereu4@hotmail.com WEBSITE: www.ifendu.org DATE OF INCORPORATION: March 3, 2004 REGISTRATION: No: 16, 525, Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja NATURE OF BUSINESS Registered Trustees; Socio-Cultural and Voluntary Organisation; Education for Gender Equality TRUSTEES 1. Professor Maurice Nduanya 2. Mrs. Oby Nwankwo 3. Dr. Steve Okoye 4. Dr. Nneka Osakwe 5. Rev. Sr. Dr. Rose Uchem BANKERS: Union Bank of Nigeria AUDITORS: Messrs Onochie, Orabueze & Co. Chartered Accountants 97, Zik Avenue, Uwani P.O. Box 9034, Enugu, Nigeria Please note: All Correspondence to be addressed to the executive director CONTENTS Message from the Director Vision and Mission Issues and Programmes Religion and Culture Sexuality HIV/AIDS Trafficking Leadership Capacity-building Visits Networks Awards Celebration Photos Accounts Message from the DIRECTOR Dear Friends, I am very pleased to present you this Annual Report for 2005-2006 for Ifendu for Women’s Development (IFENDU). Please take this as an invitation to become a partner or to continue to collaborate with us in the cause IFENDU stands for. It is worth recounting how and why IFENDU started and its founding ethos. When the book, Overcoming women’s subordination, first came out from the press and started circulating in Enugu and environs, I started receiving invitations from different groups: to share the product of my initial research; to speak on different subjects, ranging from women and environmental issues, to HIV and AIDS; also to attend NGO leadership forum. At this time also the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) came to Enugu for a consultative meeting on Gender, Human Rights and HIV/AIDS Prevention. The Director of Catholic Institute of Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), Monsignor Obiora Ike, extended to me an invitation to participate. In the course of the UNIFEM campaign, I was made a team leader along with eleven others who were NGO leaders. All these, and previous experiences elsewhere in mission, contributed to the steps that ultimately led to my founding a non-governmental organization (NGO) as a platform for the gender awareness project that was unfolding. IFENDU gained the status of a registered charity in 2004, though its activities started in 2002. IFENDU, meaning ‘the light of life,’ aims at contributing towards creating a world in which men and women are valued equally and operate as equal partners. IFENDU is a response to the call of the Holy Rosary Sisters’ General Chapter of 2001, to hold “a vision of mission which keeps in view root causes as well as symptoms of injustices … to do more by way of questioning … and changing unjust social structures, while continuing to respond to immediate needs” (MSHR Chapter Document: Together in Mission, 2001, p.12). It is also inspired by the words in various church documents on social justice issues. Pope John XXIII in 1963 said: “Those who know they have rights have the responsibility to claim their rights while others have the corresponding duty to respect them as they claim these rights” (Pacem in Terris, n. 44). In a Letter to Women on the eve of the United Nations conference on women in 1995, Pope John Paul II made: “a heartfelt appeal that everyone, and in a special way, states and international institutions, should make every effort to ensure that women regain full respect for their dignity …” (Letter to Women, No.1). He also called for the full inclusion of women in decision-making at all levels (Letter to Women). Similarly, the 1971 document of the Synod of Bishops has this to say: Action on behalf of social justice … is central to being Catholic. It is not new, nor is it optional. It is an essential dimension of preaching the gospel, or in other words, the Church’s mission for the redemption of the human race and its liberation from every oppressive situation (Justice in the world, no. 6). Having attended numerous national and international conferences in different parts of Nigeria and beyond, including Namibia and Malaysia, I found a consistent thread of insight running through all these trans-cultural experiences. Most Christians across the world actually believe that women’s assigned secondary status in relation to men was ordained by God and supported by the Bible. At the same time, awareness has also been gradually growing both within and outside the Church that this is not so; and that men and women are, in fact, equal, and this realization should be translated into action. The major obstacle to further change in this area is the problem posed by some scripture passages, which, in tune with the times and cultures of their authors and interpreters, are derogatory to women. This spells the need for collaborators to make the new insights available to equip people with the necessary skills and capacity to reinterpret cultural symbols and myths in ways that are more life-giving for all men and women alike. The late Pope John Paul II gave the lead in 1988 when he took pains to reinterpret those biblical passages that are often used to advance the subjugation of women, such as Gen.2: 18-25. He re-established the fact that the Genesis creation account should be reinterpreted to illuminate the divine image in women (1988, Mulieris Dignitatem, 6-8). He also corrected the ‘submission’ clause in Ephesians 5:21-33 – attributed to St Paul – that: “all the reasons given in favour of the subjection of woman to man in marriage should be understood as mutual subjection of [man and woman] to one another out of reverence to Christ” (1988, Mulieris Dignitatem, 24). Not many people seem to be aware of these developments; hence the urgency to get this saving message of the light of awareness to every corner of the country. Since inception up to 2006, IFENDU’s Outreach Programme, has benefited a total of 17 communities and 18 organizations in: FCT Abuja, Enugu, Imo, Rivers, Ekiti, Edo, Kaduna, Plateau, Ogun, and Anambra States of Nigeria. I have presented a total of 39 public lectures and attended 14 national and international conferences; published four books and numerous journal articles; and organized 11 workshops with support from some donor agencies. The production and public presentation of the book, Gender Equality from a Christian Perspective, in Abuja in 2005, was a strategic landmark in our work of gender awareness creation. This has done a great deal to break the ice of the ambivalence of many people towards the very idea of speaking about gender equality. I wish to use this opportunity to thank the following partners who demonstrated early faith in what IFENDU is all about: Combined Services Third World Fund; MISSIO; Conrad Hilton Fund for Sisters; Ecumenical HIV and AIDS Initiative in Africa; Global Fund for Women; and National Agency for Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP). Our thanks go to our eminent resource persons and collaborators on whose cooperation we have been happy and proud to count. Dr. Nneka Osakwe, Sr. Ngozi Uti, HHCJ, and Mrs Oby Nwankwo generously shared useful information on how to set up and run a non-profit organization. Archbishop John Onaiyekan and Bishop Anthony Gbuji were most supportive in regard to the NAPTIP and MISSIO projects. My congregation, the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary (MSHR), provided the resources for the initial internal capacity-building and setting-up expenses. Special thanks go to Sr Maria Ogueji, MSHR, Sr Rita Ogbusu, MSHR, (Regional Leaders of Southern Nigeria Region) and the Congregational Leadership Team, for enabling the IFENDU dream to come true. In the past, Holy Rosary Sisters, founded by Bishop Joseph Shanahan, CSSp,, opened to Nigerian women the then exclusive world of formal education. Some of the prominent women who have graced the public service with their excellent performance and personal witness of integrity are among the beneficiaries of this educational system; living testimonies to what society stands to benefit if more women are given equal opportunities to contribute to nation-building. This notwithstanding, oppressive cultural traditions have prevented even very highly educated and talented women from enjoying the fullness of human dignity. Situations of injustice abound where three-year-old ‘men’ are accorded more human recognition than thirty-year old women; all in the name of culture and tradition. Such persistent humiliation of women call for advancing Holy Rosary project of raising women’s status through formal education to that which includes advocacy for equal recognition of women’s full human identity, as an integral dimension of the preaching of the good news of Christ today. I remain yours sincerely Rose Uchem, MSHR. (Executive Director) PROFILE Ifendu For Women’s Development (IFENDU) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization initiated by Rev. Sister Rose Uchem in the spirit of the congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary whose originating charism was to promote gender parity in family life by providing for African women access to the (then exclusive) world of education. IFENDU came into existence out of the realization that although many Nigerian women have received formal school education, pioneered by Holy Rosary Sisters since the 1920s, and some have acquired higher education, formal education alone without corresponding changes in society’s attitude towards women has not lifted the cultural, social and economic burdens that women bear (Uchem, R., N., 2001, Overcoming women’s subordination, p. 251). IFENDU came into existence to fill this gap and provide the necessary social and gender education for justice. Meaning IFE-NDU, in Igbo language, means ‘the light of life,’ the saving light of awareness. Vision A world in which men and women are valued equally and work together harmoniously as equal partners, and women’s full human identity is affirmed both in theory and in practice. Character IFENDU is a vision-driven, non-membership, NGO with a five-member board of trustees. It addresses issues of women’s human identity and seeks to create the necessary awareness on women’s assigned subordinate status and to change this to that of co-equality with men. Objectives IFENDU has, among others, the following objectives: 1) To increase beneficiaries’ awareness of their social and cultural conditioning, and how they unwittingly perpetuate the same system which oppresses them, which they otherwise condemn. 2) To motivate all to work for change in behaviors, policies, beliefs and attitudes, which undermine women’s dignity. 3) To equip beneficiaries with the necessary skills and capacity to interpret cultural symbols and myths in ways that are more life-giving for women; and 4) To build up women’s capacity to assume a fuller participation in partnership with men in development; to collaborate with men on an equal footing, not in subservience. 5) To increase beneficiaries’ systematic knowledge of core gender issues and how to reverse their unhealthy effects in people’s lives; and consequently, 6) To promote genuine happy family life. Status IFENDU has been in operation since 2002 but it gained the status of a registered charity with the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, in March, 2004. Intervention strategies include: i) Advocacy outreach to communities and organizations; ii) Training; and iii) Documentation and Presentation Service. Our focus group is principally women and youth. However, recognizing the need for ‘gender education’ for all, we also conduct programmes for men to empower them to play their own part in effecting systemic change in the social and cultural issues that affect women negatively in families and communities. ISSUES AND PROGRAMMES IFENDU addresses major issues which undercut women’s experience of wholeness and fullness of life; and does this in the inter-face of Gender, Religion and Culture; Sexuality, HIV/AIDS; Human Trafficking as well as Environmental Issues/Care of the Earth. The main slant in all the activities is education and theological investigation. GENDER, RELIGION AND CULTURE The Gender, Religion and Culture (GRAC) Programme empowers people with knowledge; dispels false myths about women’s status; and suggests more life-giving interpretations of misogynist cultural and biblical texts. Activities and beneficiaries Awareness-raising activities include lectures, publications, advocacy outreach to communities, conference paper presentations, small group paper presentations and discussions, training workshops and book presentation ceremonies. Beneficiaries of this programme are: men, women and youth, including seminarians; clergy/religious/ men and women leaders; seminary/university professors, urban and rural men and women. Through an all-year-round series of lectures in a tertiary institute of theology, 250 seminarians have been trained in gender sensitivity, and some of these are currently serving as missionary priests in various parts of Nigeria, elsewhere in Africa and beyond. P. S E., one of the graduates of GRAC, now working in Ethiopia, has responsibility for women development Advocacy Outreach Our advocacy outreach entails speaking to large congregations on some of the oppressive experiences of women in our African Christian Cultures that drive some to regret ever being born ‘female’ and to declare that in their next life if there is such a thing as reincarnation, they would not like to come back to this world as a female; also the same reason makes men, if given the choice, would not like to be a ‘woman.’ In addition, a call is issued for change in cultural beliefs, attitudes and customs as highlighted in the resource materials: Beyond Veiling: A Response to Women’s Experiences in African Christian Cultures. Enugu: SNAAP Press. – by Uchem, R. N., 2002 and Overcoming women’s subordination: An Igbo African and Christian Perspective: Envisioning an inclusive theology with reference to women, Enugu: SNAAP Press. – by Uchem, R. N. 2001. In this way, the advocacy message of gender inclusiveness has reached a vast number of people in more than 16 communities and over 10 faith-based organizations: Benin City, Edo State: St Patrick’s, Benin City Abuja Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Church of the Assumption, Asokoro. Abuja FCT: St Mary’s, Karu. Abuja: St Donald’s, Karu. Kaduna, Church of Our Lady of Apostles, Independence Way. Abuja: Holy Rosary Parish, Wuse Zone 2. Umuahia, Abia State: St Michael’s Church. Onitsha: Sacred Heart Parish, Odoakpu. Abuja: Cathedral Church of the Twelve Apostles. Abuja: Holy Trinity Parish, Maitama. Orlu, Imo State: St Joseph’s Umuna. Orlu, Imo State: St John’s Parish, Amannachi. Port Harcourt, Rivers State: All Saints, Parish, Obigbo. Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State: St Patrick’s, Ado-Ekiti. Nsukka, Enugu State: St Peter’s Chaplaincy, University of Nigeria Nsukka. Enugu: Holy Trinity Parish, Independence Layout. Enugu: St Mulumba’s Chaplaincy, University of Nigeria Enugu Campus. The following organizations have also been sensitized during one of their own regular programmes: Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters; ‘Gender And Human Rights’ at Madona Retreat and Conference Centre, Nkpor, Onitsha at the invitation of Superior General, Rev. Mother Mary Dominica Odita. Major Superiors ; Gender and Human Rights Awareness’ at John Paul II Pastoral Centre, Ado-Ekiti; at the invitation of CWSI. Knights and Ladies of St Mulumba, Wuse-Abuja Sub-council during their Annual Retreat at the Holy Trinity Parish, Maitama, Abuja. ‘Widows Association’ at Holy Trinity Parish, Maitama and St Mary’s, Karu, Abuja. Catholic Women Organization, general meeting, Holy Rosary Parish, Wuse Zone 2, Abuja. Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus; Provincial Chapter; at the Pastoral Center, Owerri, Imo State. Women Religious of Awka Diocese, at Handmaids’ Nursery/Primary School, Anambra State, ‘Niger Wives Association’ (expatriate wives married to Nigerians); at Nike Avenue, GRA, Enugu. Catholic Women Organization, August Meeting, at St Joseph’s Umuna, Orlu. Catholic Women Organization, August Meeting, Amannachi. Amannachi Progressive Town’s Union, P.H. Branch, P. Harcourt, Rivers State. Daughters of Charity, Eleme, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Women Religious of Onitsha Archdiocese, at St Joseph’s Church, Aguleri, Anambra State. Enugu Area Conference of Sisters at Eke, Udi L.G.A., Enugu State. Catholic Law Students Association of Nigeria at the University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC), Enugu. Orsu Priests and Religious Annual Meeting; at Regina Pacis Church, Orlu. All-African Finally Professed Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary; at the HRCC Nsukka. OUTCOME Through the community-based advocacy outreach, over two million men, women, youth and children have been sensitized towards gender inclusion and gender balance. A remarkable incident happened at St Joseph’s Parish Umuna, Orlu, Imo State where the books listed earlier were briefly presented to the congregation. During the half-nine o’clock mass which included ‘a project collection’ competition, the presiding priest demonstrated an appreciation of the vitality of the message of gender balance. He called out two representatives – a man and a woman from the winning zone - to receive the trophy on behalf their zone. At Sacred Heart Parish, Odoakpu, Onitsha, not only did the priest welcome the message of gender balance for all the four masses. He also invited Sister Rose to take the Sunday evening instruction; according to him, “so as to give the people maximum opportunity to interact with her.” The focus of the bible instruction was the gospel story about the woman with the issue of blood. Through a step-by-step unraveling of the text in relation to Jewish customs about women, the people were led into a deeper appreciation of the full significance of Jesus’ prophetic action on behalf of that Jewish woman, and of all women of all cultures, and of all times. At the end, the people were asked to enumerate all the taboos that target women in their particular culture and they did. Then they were asked: “What if Jesus had been born into your culture, what do you think would have been his attitude to those cultural traditions against women?” Although a few insisted that Jesus would have respected their traditions against women, the overwhelming majority said that: “He would have done to them what he had done to the Hebrew culture by disregarding their taboos which discriminated against women.” At that point it was time for benediction and evening mass. Some of the people remarked that no one had ever taught them the bible in such a manner that challenged them deeply. One man in particular called for continuity to the discussions. “Next Sunday,” he said, the bible class should begin at 3.00 p.m so that we would have enough time.” However, Sister had to remind them, that she only came on invitation and that they would need to discuss with their priest for another possibility. Now, it remains to pick up on such challenges of continuity in a number of places were there have been marvelous break-throughs. In another instance, we were invited to speak to the members of St Monica’s Association, a group of Widows, in a parish in Abuja. In the course of preparing for the presentation we were faced with a dilemma. What does one say to someone recovering from or coping with loss of a spouse? We realized that it was a lot easier to talk about widows than to talk to widows. Consequently, we created a reflective open forum and called for participatory sharing on their lived experiences using a relevant scripture text. Some of them shared very deeply and we gained many insights and learned many lessons from the group. For instance, one of the lessons came from a woman who shared a remark from a book she had read to the effect that “many Christians were great at gathering on the day of the funeral; but as soon as the burial was over every one disappeared and never showed up again.” The majority in that audience were economically empowered and tried to help the less fortunate among them. However, the common denominator in their experiences was the need for company which other people tend to forget very easily. MEDIA PRESENTATION Sr Rose Uchem was interviewed on ‘The Role of Women in the Church:’ In ‘This I Believe’ Programme; hosted by Chiegonu Aroh on Enugu Television (ETV Channel 50). Saturday, Enugu; at 9 am; May 18th 2002. ACADEMIC CONFERENCES Our paper presentations have enriched the following academic conferences with a call to eradicate gender discrimination and espouse gender equality. Date Conference Paper Presented Venue 2006: 27-30th July Trans-Atlantic Research Group (TARG): Engendering Transformations Re-Imagining Woman’s Identity In An African (Nigerian) Context Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri 2006: 04-07 July International Conference marking 20 years of Catholic Institute of Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) Strengthening The Church In Nigeria Through Collaborative Ministry Ofu-Obi Africa Centre, Independence Layout, Enugu 2006: 18-20th April Annual Conference of the Catholic Theologians’ Association of Nigeria (CATHAN) Christian Fundamentalism and the Challenge To Move Towards Gender Equality Seminary of All Saints, Ekpoma, Edo State 2005: 17-19 May CIDJAP Conference marking to mark the 40th anniversary of Gaudium Et Spes Solidarity between Men and Women: An Agenda for the (Nigerian) African Church. Ofu-Obi Africa Centre, Independence Layout, Enugu 2005: 29 M-1stApr Annual Conference of the Catholic Theologians’ Association of Nigeria (CATHAN) Collaborative Ministry and Inculturation: Experiences in Two Countries Iwene Tansi Major Seminary, Onitsha, Anambra State. 2005: 20-23rd April 11th SIST Missiological Symposium Integrating HIV and AIDS Awareness into the formation of clergy, religious and laity. Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST), Attakwu, Enug 2005: 16th March International Regional Conference of Forum for African Women Educationists (FAWEN). Environmental and Gender Issues Nnamdi Azikiwe University Auditorium/Cana House, Awka, Anambra State 2005: 13th March Seminar organized by the Catholic Women Organization on the Collaboration between Men and Women in the Church and in the World Collaboration between Men and Women in the Church and in the World: An Appraisal of the Letter to the Catholic Bishops Holy Trinity Parish, Independence Layout, Enugu 2004: 31J-7 Aug 11th Conference of the International Association for Mission Studies (IAMS), Gender Inequality as an Obstacle in Mission Regency Hotel and Resort, Port Dickson, Malaysia 2004: 5 - 9th Jan. A Call To Solidarity with Africa: Americans and Africans in Dialogue about Africa’s Promise, Needs and Image. Finding voice: A response to two papers: The Church as Family of God and the Call to solidarity; and The Church as a sacrament of Solidarity DRACC, Emene- Enugu 2003: 20th August International Conference on Law, Reproduction and Human Rights Dynamics of Gender, Culture and Religion in promoting Human Rights Nicon Hilton Hotel, Abuja 2003: 26th March Umuada-Igbo First National Conference Igbo Women: Experiences, Identity and Culture in National Development Hotel Presidential, Enugu 2003: 28th March. 10th SIST Missiological Symposium on Sexuality and Relationships in the Priesthood and the Religious Life. Clergy Sexual Abuse of Women Religious: The Nigerian Experience Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST), Attakwu, Enugu 2002: 9th March National Association of Catholic Theology Students (NACATHS) Seminar Formation for Ministry in the Contemporary World: Towards A Holistic Seminary Formation in Nigeria Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST), Attakwu, Enugu SEMINARS/WORKSHOPS ORGANIZED BY OTHERS 1. Centre for Women’s Studies and Intervention (CWSI), Abuja: ‘Human Rights Issues in Women’s Subordination;’ presented at TOT workshops for Women Religious in different locations in Nigeria: Benin Ecclesiastical Province, at Ekpoma, Edo State, 23rd-24th, June, 2005. Jos Ecclesiastical Province, in Jos, Plateau State, 18th to 21st April, 2004; Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, at the Pastoral Center, Owerri, Imo State. Calabar Ecclesiastical Province, at Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, May 27-29th, 2002 2. Circle of African Women Theologians, South-East Chapter, at University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN); June, 2004. DATES ACTIVITIES & PARTICIPANTS VENUE NO. 2006: 07 Dec. Seminar on the Youth and Human Trafficking Filbon Guest House, New Haven, Enugu 167 2006: 27-29 Oct Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious Lecturers & Leaders National Renewal Centre, Iva Valley, Enugu 7 2006: 28-30 Apr Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious Leaders/ Lecturers National Renewal Centre, Iva Valley, Enugu 25 2006: 10-12 Mar Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious HRCC, Nsukka 24 2005: 11-13 Nov. Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious Pastoral Centre, Okpuno, Awka 40 2005: 28-30 Oct Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious National Renewal Centre, Iva Valley, Enugu 33 2005: 22-23 Oct. Gender Awareness Training for Clergy/men Ofuobi Africa Centre, Enugu 25 2005: 15 Oct Book Presentation: Gender Equality From A Christian Perspective Maitama Guest House, Abuja 35 2005: 03-06 May Gender Awareness Training for Clergy/Men DRACC, Emene-Enugu 24 2005: 20-23 Apr Symposium on HIV/AIDS stigma Spiritan International School of Theology, Attakwu-Enugu 82 2005: 28-30 Jan. Gender Awareness Training for Women Religious National Renewal Centre, Iva Valley, Enugu 48 SEMINARS/TRAINING WORKSHOPS ORGANIZED BY IFENDU The “Gender Awareness Training Workshop,” addresses the problem of women’s subjugation at the root level of cultural and religious attitudes. It aims at creating consciousness about injustices meted out against women and motivates participants to work towards gender equality. The project beneficiaries are Women Religious who each have a large clientele of women and girls through their ministry in rural and urban clinics, schools, parishes and other outposts. The impact of the gender awareness raising workshop – the increased awareness and behaviour changes – is reaching a vast number of people by a multiplier effect. Over time, this is gradually paving the way towards equal opportunities for women and men in the Nigerian society. In this way, this project is un-self-consciously contributing toward realizing the United Nations Millennium Goal number three: ‘Promote Gender Equality.’ Several of these workshops were conducted for various Area Conferences of Women Religious, focusing on creating awareness of core gender issues whereby women’s human identity is submerged, and how to correct this anomaly and bring about gender balance in the Nigerian society. This enabled participants to become more aware of gender issues around them and how these affect them; also to get to know how they contribute knowingly or unknowingly to the issues that affect them as women. It featured paper presentations, interactive sessions, small and large group discussions. In addition, books and other resource materials for gender and human rights awareness were distributed to all the participants. GENDER AWARENESS TRAINING FOR CLERGY/MEN The 3rd – 6th May 2005 witnessed the height of the workshops organized by Ifendu for Women’s Development at DRACC, Emene, Enugu. The Gender Awareness Training Workshop was attended by a few laymen, some deacons and priests. Among those in attendance were parish priests, a psychotherapist, a women’s group chaplain, seminary professors and members of Diocesan Justice and Peace Commission. A few women were also in attendance either as resources persons, workshop assistants or program staff. The workshop was officially declared open on Wednesday May 4 2005 with the ritual lighting of the IFENDU candle symbolizing awareness, which the workshop sought to create. The ritual lighting was performed by a man and a woman, signifying their complementarity to each other. The first paper was presented by Rev. Fr. Kekong Bisong on Special Issues in Gender Awareness: Redressing the Institutionalization of the Girl-Child domestic Worker. He highlighted the plight of these young women particularly the hidden nature of the abuses to which they are exposed. He called for a restoration of their human dignity. Another presentation, ‘Gender and Culture: What needs to change in the society and in the Church,’ was by Dr. Regina Eya, a lecturer in the Department of Psychology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu. In her paper, she traced the recent history of awareness of women’s rights, beginning in 1945 with the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and provided graphic case stories of violence against women that call for immediate attention and change. She emphasized the need to recognize the rights and dignity of women. Sr. Helen Onyiuke, MSHR, Director of Holy Rosary Retreat and Conference Centre, Nsukka gave another presentation. Her paper was titled ‘Collaboration between men and Women: A way Forward’. Her paper was very much based on experience in different mission areas. She gave examples of some men, including priests, who have played positive roles in this area of collaboration between men and women both in the homes and in parishes. She also highlighted the not so glorious instances. She called attention to the need “to take women seriously and allow them to take their rightful position in the affairs of the church, state and family.” Fr Greg. Nnamani from the Seminary of All Saints, Ekpoma, spoke on: ‘Gender Equality in the Church and in the Society: Our Obligation towards change’. The core message of his paper was to recognize and restore the true nature of feminine dignity. He maintained that this could only be achieved if men and women cooperate as equals. In another presentation titled, ‘Core Gender Issues: Addressing Stigma and Stereotypes,’ Mrs. Appolonia Obi, the Executive Director, Women Action for Grassroots Empowerment, Enugu. brought out instances of discriminations and stigmatization women suffer in the hands of men, simply because they are women. She emphasized some cultural issues, including imposition of decisions on women and called for a positive change. The final paper, ‘Gender Equality from a Christian Perspective’ was presented by Sr. Rose Uchem MSHR, a lecturer at the Spiritan International School of Theology, Attakwu Enugu and Executive Director, of Ifendu for Women’s Development. She focused on the distinction between sex and gender, and the need for a renewed understanding of biblical inspiration and revelation. She made the point that gender equality is not about biological sameness but rather about giving women and men equal opportunities, based on giftedness and training rather than sex. She noted that men and women were equally made in God’s image. She highlighted the need to re-interpret some biblical passages for instance the biblical notion ‘woman’ as a helpmate to ‘man’ as a means of overcoming a major obstacle to realizing gender equality. At the end of this workshop, which featured much sharing of experiences, inputs from presenters and interventions from participants; much brainstorming and arguments between participants and presenters, participants felt greatly enriched, energized and empowered. Many undertook to help educate others on gender issues that need to change. Several of them pledged to pass on what they had learnt and to play a more active role in sensitizing others about the need for increasing gender equality in our society. Participants’ plans included the following: To organise such seminars in my parish. To conscientize the women folk for them to know their role and rights; and the need to take it. Never to abuse women or intimidate them. Always to give them opportunity To write and publish some of the insights. Henceforth, I will strive to relate to women from the point of view of merit. To allow more room to my female friends in group discussions. Meetings with CWO [Catholic Women Organization] at the parish and station levels. From the feedback based on the evaluation, this workshop was successful in achieving its objectives and was highly appreciated GENDER AWARENESS TRAINING FOR WOMEN RELIGIOUS LEADERS AND LECTURERS From the 28th to 30th April, 2006, a workshop on gender awareness was held at the National Renewal Centre, Iva Valley, Enugu. The three-day workshop was facilitated by Sister Catherine Asomugha, MSHR, and Mrs Apollonia Obi, under the auspices of Ifendu for Women’s Development (Ifendu), with support from the Global Fund For Women. In attendance were 25 women religious, from different congregations in the south-east zone of Nigeria, who were either university/seminary lecturers or leaders, within their own ranks or elsewhere. Among these were: a catechist, a medical doctor, a canon/civil lawyer, theologians, nurses, teachers, gender analysts, principals, and other specialists. The forum was part of the ‘Ifendu’ initiative aimed at contributing toward creating a world in which men and women are valued equally and operate as equal partners. The specific aim for this workshop was for sisters to come together to exchange ideas, support each other, and also explore possibilities of working together with a more united voice on issues that affect women adversely in the country. It was also intended to familiarize participants with official Church documents on women and to explore how to assist the Church authorities in country to move forward beyond rhetoric towards implementation of existing commitments. Altogether five papers were presented: Participation of women in the Church’s Leadership, Liturgy and Apostolate in Igboland: An urgent cry for help – by Sr. Mary Linda Vivian Onuoha, I.H.M (Lecturer, Department of Modern Languages, University of Nigeria Nsukka); Envisioning A More Gender Inclusive World For Humanity: Challenges and Prospects – by Fr. Bonny Obiefuna (Department of Religion, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka); Gender Equality from A Christian Perspective – by Sr. Rose Uchem, MSHR (Lecturer, Systematic and Contextual Theologies, Spiritan International School of Theology, Attakwu, Enugu and Executive Director, Ifendu); Gender Issues in Family Life – by Mrs Apollonia Obi, (Principal Public Health Officer, UNTH Enugu, and Executive Director, Women Action for Grassroots Empowerment, Enugu); and Women and the Kolanut: A Theological Reflection – by Sr. Catherine Asomugha, MSHR (Lecturer, Spiritual Theology and Biblical Spirituality, Blessed Iwene Tansi Major Seminary Onitsha, and Vice Postulator, Cause for the Canonization of Bishop Joseph Shanahan). At the end of the workshop, the participants unanimously called themselves ‘Sisters for Transformation.’ They surfaced some key issues they would like to address together in the intervening months. Until their next meeting in October, 2006, ‘Sister-to-Sister Relationships’ would be their top priority. BOOK PRESENTATION: GENDER EQUALITY FROM A CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE Until much recently many people had been ambivalent and skeptical about engaging with issues of gender awareness. As a result, it became necessary to hold a media event as a way of reaching a vast number of people who otherwise would never get to a workshop. The aim was to get people thinking and talking about daily life experiences of women and men which call for change. This took the form of a book presentation held at Maitama Guest House, Abuja on 15th October, 2005. The book titled, Gender Equality From A Christian Perspective, edited by Rose Uchem, and with contributions from Regina Eya, Amuluche-Greg Nnamani, MSHR, and Anthony Iffen Umoren, MSP, was a direct outcome of the gender awareness workshops organized by Ifendu For Women’s Development, with financial support from MISSIO Munchen in 2005. The book was reviewed by two people: Rev. Fr. Dr. Patrick Alumuku and Barr. Mrs. Chinyere Obi-Obasi. Present at the occasion were representatives from the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, the Federal Ministry of Education, the Directorate of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). Also in attendance were several Sisters, representatives of women organizations as well as interested individuals, including a traditional ruler. As a bi-product, the event prompted some people to pledge moral and financial support to Ifendu For Women’s Development. On the whole, it was highly successful in terms of creating the desired awareness because of the wide media coverage it received. It was reported on the national television network throughout the country. One of the outcomes of the event is that it helped to wear down some of the negative perceptions and fears of some people around the notion of gender equality. Subsequently, there has been an increasing demand for the book which has since been serving as very useful resource material for gender awareness throughout the country. The impact of this work is attested by someone who attended the book presentation: “As a trainer of the United Nations Millennium Development Goal, particularly, goal number three, promote gender equality, your book has been a great source of back up for my training. It was so wonderful! … It does not take a crowd to achieve great things. You are a testament to this!” Subsequently, there have been an increasing number of inquiries about the book which has since been serving as very useful resource material for gender awareness throughout the country. CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES The growing impact of our work is attested in the following excerpts: From someone who attended the book presentation: “Congratulations for the wonderful works you are doing. In fact, your movement goes beyond the paper print. It’s really the light of life, because it awakens the consciousness of the power within (women) and when one is informed, the sky is the limit to what he/she can do with the information. As a trainer of the United Nations Millennium Development Goal, particularly, goal number three – ‘Promote gender equality,’ your book has been a great source of back up for my training. It was so wonderful! … It does not take a crowd to achieve great things. You are a testament to this!” (P. O. K., Abuja, October 21, 2005) Other letters of appreciation have kept flowing in from around the world. “It is amazing to learn that from 2003 till date- a short period of three years - you have taken Ifendu for women’s Development to this level. It is a thing of joy for me to relate with hardworking and committed individuals like you, who when they believe in a cause, devote all their energy to get it going. I am very proud to be associated with Ifendu for Women’s Development. Best compliments” (O. N; [E. D, CIRDDOC], Enugu, July 31st 2006). “Greetings, Rose, … and thank you for the book you sent me some months ago. Congratulations on your contribution to the book and your efforts to educate everybody on women’s dignity and equality with men. I haven’t yet had an opportunity to read the whole book but from what I’ve read I am very impressed” (M. D. Dublin, Ireland, September, 20th, 2006). I’ve just read your book, ‘Gender Equality,’ passed on to me by T. S. I’m very glad indeed to have been able to read it as I found it so interesting. You and your collaborators are to be congratulated. Yours is a wonderful project not only for the women of Nigeria but for women worldwide. And so very ‘Holy Rosary’ too! I think of Bishop Shanahan founding us for the enhancement of women! (M. O., Cavan, Ireland. June 7, 2006). I want to write to congratulate you on the book Gender Equality and on your own contribution to it. … For years I have been concerned about gender equality, as I believe it will make the world a better place when feminine and masculine qualities are equally valued, and society and church would be more balanced. Indeed, it is what Bishop Shanahan founded us for, and I am sure he is proud of you today and of your courage. Although it is moving that way, very slowly, there is no place in the world where there is real equality. At a [certain] meeting I was attending, I read from your book pp.54-56, and everyone there was delighted, and send congratulations and solidarity to you… So, keep up the great work for the good of woman and for society and church (M. D., Dublin, Ireland. 23rd March 2006). I received a copy of your publication Gender Equality via M. O. and T. S. some time ago. I want to congratulate you on it and the work you are doing to raise awareness on gender issues and also on ecology concerns. …I want you to know I am with you in support and solidarity. (T. D., Dublin, Ireland. July 3, 2006). Greetings to you, and I hope you keep well. Congratulations to you and the three other people on the production of the book “Gender Equality.” … I have read it with great interest, and have come to a better understanding of the gender issue especially in Nigeria. The women with whom I worked in Benue, gave me many insights into their lives, confided in me, and we tried together to bring understanding and healing into their lives. Dr. Eya’s list of violence against women, certainly cry out for immediate attention. Fathers Umoren and Nnamani, certainly have studied the imbalance between the sexes, and were courageous to speak the truth. Until women though, believe that they are equal to men and by their actions and words portray this reality, there is little hope for their emancipation. Certainly through your own article, Rose, I have come to a greater understanding of the difference between ‘sex’ and ‘gender’. I pray that your study and work will enlighten Nigerian women, for whom I have the greatest love and respect. (K. W. Cavan, Ireland. 15th September, 2006). “I read with interest in … about your books on women’s issues. … It is great to know that a Holy Rosary Sister is writing on such an important topic.” (H.C., Brazil, 15th September, 2007). The following came in connection with earlier writings: “I have just completed reading your excellent book, Beyond Veiling. I see it as a wonderful contribution to the needed conscientization of our people on basic issues of justice. May God continue to enlighten you with wisdom and grace. I am aware of the positive contribution you are making to our local Church, especially in the crucial area of freedom and justice for all children of God, male and female alike. I pray that God will bless our little efforts to bring about the Kingdom of Love” (C. E. Rome, 18th April, 2003). “Hearty congratulations on your spectacular performance at the symposium at SIST [Attakwu, Enugu]! The Church in Nigeria needs many women in your mold, and that of Sr O. More grease to your elbows” (Fr V. Umuahia, Nigeria, 12th April, 2003). “I hear of all the good work you are doing especially in the area of women emancipation and conscientization of men … You certainly have the support of my prayer” (J.A, Zambia, 28th January, 2003). “I came across your talk … last month. It has been a source of inspiration to the many sisters who read it. … I pray that God continues to inspire you more so that through such … many sisters will come to know their rights” (R.M.A., Bonjongo, Cameroon, 11th April, 2003). SEXUALITY EDUCATION PROGRAMME The objective of the Sexuality Education Programme includes increasing participants’ understanding of the elements of human sexuality; the practical meaning of gender equality and discovering how to foster healthier and happier relationships between men and women for a more effective presence and action in the world. Our activities comprise the following. CONFERENCE PAPER PRESENTATION 2003 Sexuality and Celibacy in the Nigerian Church; tthe 10th SIST Missiological Symposium at the Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST), Attakwu, Enugu, Nigeria, 28th March. TOT WORKSHOPS ON HUMAN SEXUALITY AND GENDER AWARENESS 2006: Missionary Society of St Paul at MSP Formation House, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State; 1-4 June. 2006: Daughters of Divine Love, at DRACC, Emene-Enugu, 20th February. 2004; Marist Brothers of the Schools, at DRACC, Emene-Enugu; 7th April. 2003: Women Religious of Onitsha Archdiocese, at St Joseph’s Church, Aguleri, Anambra State.; 13th September SEXUALITY AND GENDER AWARENESS TRAINING FOR SEMINARIANS A workshop on Sexuality and Gender Awareness took place at the Missionary Society of St Paul of Nigeria Formation House, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, on the 2nd and 3rd of June, 2006. It was co-facilitated by Sister Rose Uchem, MSHR, and Mrs Apollonia Obi, under the auspices of Ifendu for Women’s Development (Ifendu), at the invitation of the MSP Formation Team, represented by Fr. Jude Alih and Fr Moses Amune. The workshop was warmly hosted by Fr. Paul Aso and Fr. James Yakubu, the team members on the spot. In attendance were eighteen young men from different states in Nigeria in their second year of spiritual studies leading up to their seminary training for the Catholic priesthood. The workshop objective included increasing participants’ understanding of the elements of human sexuality and the practical meaning of gender equality and to discover how to foster healthier and happier relationships between men and women in the church and in the society, for a more effective ministry and witnessing to God’s reign in our world. The workshop featured paper presentations, visual art gallery walk, interactive sessions, small and large group discussion sessions. Altogether four papers were presented: Human Sexuality: Distinctions Between Sex, Sexuality and Gender; and Gender Equality from A Christian Perspective – by Sr. Rose Uchem, MSHR (Lecturer, Systematic and Contextual Theologies, Spiritan International School of Theology, Attakwu, Enugu and Executive Director, Ifendu); Elements of Sexuality Education for Youth; and Gender Issues in Family Life – by Mrs Apollonia Obi, (Principal Public Health Officer, UNTH Enugu, and Executive Director, Women Action for Grassroots Empowerment, Enugu). The combination of the medical/health and psychological/theological approaches of the two facilitators made the workshop all the more enriching. At the end of the workshop, the participants described their experiences as enriching, empowering, wonderful and enlightening. Their comments included the following. “What I found helpful was the mode of presentation and facilitation; and the discussion/interactive sessions at different stages of the paper presentations. It really went a long way toward broadening my knowledge about some issues I was ignorant of. It really broke me … but I was able to gather myself again and reshape my mind about my cultural background. What I did not find helpful was the time constraint and congestion in questions. The workshop should take five to seven days and not two days …” (Anon). “I know for sure I am not exaggerating to say that these two days spent with you doing the workshop to me are like I spent a week of ‘a must learning work’. In all it was too enriching and full of insights. You ended up empowering me on an issue I’m already looking for points, background, best still a foundation, to start building on. I hope it will not be asking too much if I request you to keep me updated with your papers on gender awareness to aid me … in spreading the good news of gender equality” (F.E.U). “Time wasn’t just enough; workshops of this kind should be allotted more days, more time” (J.F.O). “In fact, I am short of words to express my joy about the workshop. It was wonderful in content and presentation. … I learnt a lot on sexuality from a different point of view which was interesting to me. On gender issues, I had been carrying some traditional beliefs about the role of women in the house but now I even know that I will be the one to benefit from doing some of those chores, as regards my fuller development of left and right brain … You have empowered me” (T. A. S. L.). “Since I am already enlightened, I would also reach out and enlighten others” (E. P. U.). “This workshop should be extended to others. All need to be enlightened and empowered … the laity, men and women organizations, the religious, the youth in parishes, secondary schools, universities, etc.” (J.F.O). “I suggest that this type of workshop be done in all the seminaries in the country and beyond because by so doing, you would have touched the lives of multitudes of people including their leaders” (J. E.). COUNTER-TRAFFICKING IN WOMEN (EDUCATION) PROGRAMME Objective: To create awareness in the general public about human-trafficking To empower the youth with knowledge of the real facts about human-trafficking To enable them safeguard themselves against being trapped. ACTIVITIES Advocacy Meetings on counter-traffic in human persons in collaboration with Committee for Support of the Dignity of Women (COSUDOW) and Nigeria Conference of Women Religious (NCWR) and some Nigerian Catholic bishops as well as National Agency for Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP). Seminar 2006: 7th December, Seminar on the Youth and Human Trafficking at Enugu, with co-funding support from NAPTIP. “THE YOUTH AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING” A Seminar was organized by Ifendu For Women’s Development (IFENDU) on “The Youth And Human Trafficking” on Thursday 7th December, 2006; at Filbon Guest House New Haven, Enugu. It began with an opening prayer said by His Grace, Archbishop John Onaiyekan of Abuja who also gave the Keynote Address. The audience was mostly made up of young persons although some adults, particularly parents, were also in attendance. There were four speakers and 170 participants comprising representatives of various youth and women organizations, students and staff of secondary and tertiary institutions; and the media, namely, Nigeria Television Authority, NTA; Enugu State Broadcasting Service; and the Punch Newspapers. Mrs Chiegeonu Rockefeller-Ogboso of Enugu State Broadcasting Service was Mistress of Ceremonies for the occasion. As explained in a welcome address by Rev. Sr. Rose Uchem, MSHR, Executive Director of Ifendu for Women’s Development (IFENDU), “the seminar was aimed at empowering the youth with knowledge of the real facts about human trafficking so that they could safeguard themselves against being trapped.” She pointed out that in 2007 the world would celebrate two hundred years anniversary of the official abolition of the slave trade achieved through the political activism of William Wilberforce in the British House of Parliament. Yet slavery had re-appeared in a new form known as human trafficking. Mother Ifechukwu Udorah, DDL, President of Nigeria Conference of Women Religious, originators of Committee for Support of the Dignity of Women (COSUDOW), Benin City, gave a goodwill message. In her speech she pointed out that Catholic Reverend Sisters had been rehabilitating returnees from Italy and other countries for several years. She noted that “in the past, it was the colonists who came with big ships that exploited our people, deceiving our ancestors to part with their kith and kin in exchange for guns, cheap clothes, and other trifles. But the colonists of yester-years are today replaced by our own brothers and sisters – buying and selling their own kith and kin – deluding them with false offers of a good job, a good education and a better life overseas.” She urged both the youths and parents to be on their guard against these tricks used by those who traffic in human persons. Archbishop Onayeikan, in his keynote address, condemned the present situation whereby our youths are being tricked and moved out of this country to foreign countries for exploitation. He narrated an embarrassing experience during one of his trips to Italy when his friends brought to his attention that some Nigerian girls were on the streets hawking for customers. He attributed the high rate of human trafficking to many factors which included: poverty, unemployment, greed, as well as spiritual poverty. The prelate commended the organizers of the seminar for their initiative and urged that more awareness be created to sensitize our youths and the society at large against human trafficking. He advised parents to be vigilant over their children and to supervise their activities and the kind of company they keep. He pointed out that the Church – notably through the work of the Catholic Reverend Sisters - had done a lot of work in the area of counter- trafficking. Based on this work, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria issued a pastoral letter in 2002 titled: Restoring the Dignity of the Nigerian Woman. “This fact,” he said, “needs to be acknowledged and their work should receive more support both from the Church hierarchy and from the government.” He also noted that counter- traffic in human persons was one of the areas where the government should collaborate with the Church for greater impact. In an interlude, students of Holy Rosary College (HRC) Uwani-Enugu entertained the audience with a delightful cultural dance, which everyone enjoyed. After this another paper was presented by Sr. Florence Nwaonuma, SSH, Executive Director, COSUDOW, ably represented by Rev. Sr. Dorothy, DDL. The Paper was titled: “Traffic in Persons: Youth and Women’s Vulnerability.” In her speech, she explained the many tricks with which some of our youths are being trapped and trafficked out of the country. These include offers and opportunities for marriage, scholarship, employment, and so on. She displayed some posters portraying the ordeals the victims had to go through. Some of these girls had been tricked by their parents, close relations or persons well known in their towns to go into this business. She advised parents to be very careful with the way they hurry their daughters into marriage simply because the supposed suitor is said to live abroad. Mrs. Ijeoma Okoronkwo, zonal head, National Agency for Prohibition of Traffic in Persons (NAPTIP), Enugu, in her own paper titled: “Human Trafficking and Child Labour: Local and Global Dimensions” defined human trafficking as: “illegal movement of persons from one geographical area to another for the purpose of exploitation.” Although young men were also being trafficked, more of young women fall victims of human trafficking and child-labour. She called on the youths to be hard-working and to be content with whatever they had. She also advised parents to look after their children; provide for their needs the much they could, and not leave their children to behave as they pleased. Finally, the zonal head of NAPTIP urged the audience to report any cases of trafficking to their agency which had powers to arrest and prosecute suspected criminals. Responding to the presentations, a youth representative, Mr. George Alenkhe, advocated for both government and Church to do more by offering scholarships, quality ‘free’ education within existing government and mission school system as well as sustainable employment in order to alleviate the plight of the youth; thereby providing viable alternatives to the false promises that lure the youths into perdition. This was followed by a plenary session during which other participants expressed their views on the topic. They called for a replication of the programme and pledged to share their insights with their peers. Outcome One hundred and sixty-seven (167) youth trained. The programme which was featured on Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) created awareness. It also resulted to video clips and DVD now available for on-going step down trainings. HIV AND AIDS STIGMA REDUCTION AND PREVENTIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMME Ifendu for Women’s Development has organized so many workshops on HIV/AIDS education in and outside Enugu State. As an organization that promotes gender equality, its HIV/AIDS programmes often highlight the close connection between gender and HIV/AIDS. They focus on preventive education about HIV/AIDS; that is, creating awareness about the virus and its effects, teaching the preventive measures, how gender is related to the spread of HIV/AIDS, how to reduce stigmatization against PLWHA, encourage care and support; and promote gender equality in the society. ACTIVITIES include: Conference paper presentation: 1. Sexual Ethics in a Time of AIDS,’ a paper presented at the Medical Missionaries Mary HIV/AIDS Conference, November, 24th November; 2005 at DRACC, Lugbe-Abuja. 2. ‘HIV and AIDS Related Stigma: A Theological Reflection’ at a one-day AIDS Awareness Workshop at The Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST), Attakwu-Enugu. 13th October, 2004. 3. HIV/AIDS Awareness Seminar in Obigbo community, Rivers State, 1st September 2005. (co-sponsored by Ifendu and Sacred Heart Society, Saint Paul’s Parish Obigbo). 4. Resource and IEC Materials Development Workshop; ‘Guide on HIV/AIDS for clergy;’ sponsored by United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) at Dannic Hotel, New Haven, Enugu, February 9th-13th, 2004. 5. UNAIDS-sponsored workshop of International Theologians on HIV/AIDS related stigma, at Windhoek, Namibia, December 6th-12th; 2003. 6. UNIFEM: Gender, Human Rights and HIV/AIDS Prevention Campaign, Enugu State of Nigeria (June 4th 2002 to January 28th, 2003), contributed as a Team Leader SEMINAR FOR CLERGY, LAITY AND WOMEN RELIGIOUS LEADERS FOR ELIMINATION OF HIV/AIDS RELATED STIGMA In one of its programmes, IFENDU organized a four-day seminar for clergy and religious leaders for the elimination of HIV/AIDS related stigma. It took place, April 20-23rd, 2005, at the Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST) Attakwu Enugu and with support from Ecumenical HIV and AIDS Initiative in Africa (EHAIA). As explained by Sr Rose Uchem, of SIST/IFENDU, the objectives of the seminar were to : (1) Sensitize clergy, religious and lay leaders to the realities of discrimination and stigmatization of PLWHA and to do their best to condemn it as a sin and as contrary to God’s will; and to enable them deal effectively with cases of stigmatization. (2) Motivate parishes, religious congregations and theology institutions to incorporate HIV/AIDS awareness and response into their religious education programmes. (3) Encourage preachers of the gospel to include messages and information about prevention, care and support into their sermons and on-going pastoral programmes in schools and parishes, particularly, youth programmes. (4) Mobilize religious leaders to develop Information, Education and Communication (IEC) messages and programmes that stress the importance of Christian Family Life and moral values that encourage faithfulness, concern for one another, etc. (5) Encourage church members and leaders to participate in care and support programmes for persons with HIV/AIDS. There were several speakers that included among others: (1) Mrs. Appolonia Obi of WAGE, Enugu (2) Dr. Chinedu Aranotu, a medical consultant in Enugu (3) Mr. Humphrey Ubani of CESSGO, Enugu (4) Miss Bernadette Onah of CESSGO, Enugu (5) Sr Rose Uchem, SIST/IFENDU. During her presentation, Mrs. Apollonia Obi of WAGE Enugu pointed out that life expectancy had dropped from 51 to 47 because of HIV/AIDS. She also said that the youths, especially the females aged 15 to 18, were the most vulnerable group. She urged participants to join hands to spread behaviour change communication. In his own speech, Dr. Chinedu Aranotu, a medical consultant in Enugu said that at the time there were up to 3 million PLWHA in Nigeria. He condemned the judgmental attitudes of society towards PLWHA and urged all and sundry to stand against prejudice and give PLWHA support so as to help stop the spread of the infection. Also in his own input, Mr. Humphrey Ubani of CESSGO Enugu stressed the need to avoid stigmatization which he said also kills and encouraged voluntary counseling and testing. These measures would help stem the spread of the virus. Miss Bernadette Onah of CESSGO Enugu and also a PLWHA condemned stigmatization and advocated that we should spread the news and not the virus. Sr Rose Uchem stressed the necessity of including HIV/AIDS education in the seminary training to prepare the participants to minister effectively and with compassion. The symposium attracted more than hundred participants who went home very challenged and enriched. In the end, many of the participants became convinced of the reality of the AIDS virus and expressed themselves as follows: RECOMMENDATIONS Participants recommended that awareness programmes be carried into the rural areas. Again, people should be made to understand that gender equality does not mean biological uniformity as many think, but rather equal opportunities. This will help the men to start seeing their female counterparts not as their properties but as their mates and it will help to reduce vulnerability in women. HIV/AIDS SEMINAR IN OBIGBO, PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE In another of its programmes, Ifendu organized a seminar at Saint Paul’s Parish Obigbo, Rivers State on 1st September 2005, on the theme: ‘HIV/AIDS and Us Christians.’ It was hosted by the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, under the leadership of Mrs P. Nwabichie. Many participants came from various parts of the town – both Catholic and non-Catholic Christians, following an extensive publicity. They received warm hospitality from the community. During the seminar, four different resource persons spoke on the following topics: 1. Meaning of HIV/AIDS; ways of contact, symptoms of the virus and preventive measures by Mr. Humphrey Ubani of CESSGO, Enugu. 2. HIV/AIDS: A threat to the present generation by Mrs. Appolonia Obi of WAGE, Enugu. 3. Care and Support for the HIV positive Persons by Mr. Humphrey Ubani of CESSGO, Enugu. 4. The relationship of HIV/AIDS Gender, Religion and culture by Rev. Sr. Dr. Rose Uchem of Ifendu, Enugu. On the whole, one can say that the seminar was quite successful. One hundred and fifty-seven (157) persons were in attendance and went home feeling enriched. They expressed appreciation for the knowledge they acquired from the seminar and made a commitment: to educate other people in their community on the challenges of HIV/AIDS to this generation; to prevent and discourage stigmatization against PLWHAs; also to care and offer support whenever they encounter any; and finally that it is only love on the part of men and women that will bring gender equality to this society. Mrs. Nwabichie summed up the whole experience this way: This workshop has offered me the opportunity of being enlightened more on the issue of HIV and AIDS. I was made to know that it is not only through sexual intercourse that one can contact the virus but also through other ways like: blood transfusion, the use of contaminated sharp objects (scissors, razor, clippers, injection needle etc.); the use of contaminated toothbrush etc. I was also challenged to change my attitude towards those living with HIV/AIDS; also to care, support and encourage them to manage their health so as to live longer healthily and fulfill the number of their years on earth. It stirred me up to enjoin other parents to educate our children both male and female on the thr