On 27 November 2014, UNAMID joined local government authorities and UN agencies in celebrating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in El Fasher, North Darfur. The event was organized by the North Darfur Ministry of Social Affairs in collaboration with State Committee for Combatting Gender-based Violence and UNFPA.

The Deputy Wali (Governor) of North Darfur, senior government officials, representatives from UN Agencies and UNAMID, representatives of civil society organizations and nongovernmental organizations were present on the occasion which included drama performances and songs.

Similar activities were organized across Darfur to mark the occasion. On 25 November, UNAMID and UNFPA commemorated the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence under the theme, “From peace in the home to peace in the world,” in Zalingei, Central Darfur. The event was attended by more than 500 people, including local government officials.

On behalf of the Wali (Governor) of Central Darfur, Mr. Abdallah Mohamed Khamis, the Chairman of the State High Council for Peace and Reconciliation urged respect for women and human rights in society, pointing out the numerous contributions of women within their communities.

Additionally, in El Geneina, West Darfur, hundreds of people, mostly women attended the event observing the International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women and the launching of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence. The event organized by UNAMID, UN agencies and the Ministry of Social Affairs, Youth and Sport, was attended by the Deputy Wali (Governor), Mr. Abulgasim Baraka, senior government officials, representatives of civil society organizations, UN Agencies and UNAMID.

In his remarks, the Deputy Wali emphasized that Sudan has set into place regulations that clearly stipulate respect for women in all spheres of life. He also expressed the Government‘s appreciation for UNAMID’s support through its early recovery projects.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence is a global campaign aimed at raising people’s awareness on violence against women and its impact on a woman`s physical, psychological, social and spiritual wellbeing.