The Association of Feminist Leaders for Access to Rights and Gender Equity in Chad (AFLADEGT) is convening a two-day workshop in N’Djamena from August 12 to 13, 2026, to validate a critical study on mapping legal and psychosocial support services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).
This initiative, part of the WISH 2-WACA project, aims to enhance service coordination and ensure survivors receive timely, appropriate assistance. Participants—including government officials, civil society groups, technical and financial partners, and specialized agencies—will review and refine the mapping results to strengthen response mechanisms.
Strengthening survivor pathways through evidence-based advocacy
At the workshop’s opening, Wouténé Mélissa, AFLADEGT President, emphasized the tool’s role beyond documentation. She framed the mapping as a dynamic instrument for guiding survivors, improving service referrals, and advocating for policy changes.
« Survivors need immediate clarity on where to seek help, which services to access, and how to secure tailored support », Mélissa stated. She highlighted gaps in service coverage, victim awareness, referral systems, and resource allocation as key barriers to effective GBV response.
Public health leader calls for systemic reforms
Dr. Kadidja Amadaye Abgrene, Director of Reproductive Health, underscored that gender-based violence undermines fundamental rights and dignity. While praising government efforts—such as legal reforms and the establishment of integrated service centers—she noted persistent challenges, particularly in legal and judicial support.
Data shared during the session revealed that fewer than 11% of identified survivors receive legal accompaniment. Barriers include overreliance on informal resolutions, limited awareness of services, and fragmented referral mechanisms. The mapping also exposed disparities in service availability across N’Djamena’s districts, a lack of confidential safe spaces, and urgent needs for trained staff and material resources.
« This study must serve as a roadmap for policymakers », Dr. Abgrene said. « It will help streamline survivor pathways, bridge gaps between sectors, and shape decisions to build a more responsive support system. »