By Bunmi Yekini
To support female sex workers (FSWs) and vulnerable women, Round Care Development Initiative (ROCDI), in collaboration with the African Women Development Fund (AWDF), has successfully implemented two transformative programs aimed at improving their resilience, economic independence, and access to support services. Through the SGBV Outreach Training and Skills Acquisition Training, the organization provided participants with critical tools to protect themselves, navigate challenges, and create sustainable livelihoods.
The SGBV Outreach Training, held at the ROCDI office, brought together peer educators and community members to learn practical self-defense techniques, risk reduction strategies, and trauma-informed care for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Participants engaged in discussions on how to advocate for their rights despite stigma and discrimination, ways to reduce violence within their communities, and the need for stronger survivor support services. There was also a focus on improving reporting mechanisms and ensuring access to legal and psychological assistance.
During the session, Tessy Friday, a peer educator from Alimosho LGA, highlighted the challenges sex workers face when standing up for their rights. “Standing up for our rights is difficult because society often turns against us. We need legal backing and continuous advocacy,” she said. Another participant, Judith Aighobahi, who works at African 2000 Hotel, emphasized the need for alternative income opportunities. “Seventy-five percent of sex workers want to transition to other income-generating activities but lack the financial means to do so,” she explained.
ROCDI’s Project Coordinator, Kenny Fayemi, encouraged participants to put their knowledge to practical use. “The skills and knowledge you have gained here should become part of your daily lives. We want you to continue educating others in your community, and remember that ROCDI is always here to support you,” he said. At the end of the session, all participants received certificates of engagement, symbolizing their commitment to advocating for SGBV survivors and improving safety within their communities.
Recognizing that economic vulnerability is a key factor in exposing women to exploitation and violence, ROCDI also organized a two-day Skills Acquisition Training designed to equip participants with practical, income-generating skills. Nineteen women from Ojo, Alimosho, and Oshodi-Isolo LGAs took part in hands-on training sessions focused on producing liquid soap, disinfectants, air fresheners, and learning essential branding, marketing, and business management techniques.
On the first day, the women learned the step-by-step process of producing household cleaning products and worked in groups to practice their newly acquired skills. The second day was dedicated to branding and marketing strategies, ensuring that participants understood how to make their products appealing and competitive in the marketplace. They also received guidance on sourcing affordable raw materials, maintaining product quality, and effectively promoting their businesses.
For many participants, the training offered a much-needed opportunity to break free from financial dependence on sex work. “This training has given me hope. Now, I can make and sell my own products instead of relying solely on sex work for income,” one trainee remarked.
ROCDI’s Executive Director, Tina Nwaneri, stressed the importance of equipping vulnerable women with sustainable skills. “Providing women with alternative sources of income is a crucial step toward financial independence. Our goal is to reduce their exposure to violence and exploitation while improving their overall economic stability,” she said.
Both programs reflect ROCDI’s broader mission of empowering marginalized women by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to lead safer, healthier, and more independent lives. The organization is calling on policymakers, civil society groups, and stakeholders to support initiatives that promote the well-being, safety, and financial resilience of vulnerable women.