The Africa Faith and Justice Network (AFJN-Nigeria), Ebonyi State Chapter, successfully conducted a One-Day Capacity Building Training on Safeguarding and Community Monitoring Systems (CMS) in Offianka, Ezza-Inyimagu (Izzi LGA) and Ekawoke (Ikwo LGA). The training, implemented in collaboration with key stakeholders including the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Child Protection Network Nigeria (CPN), GBV Taskforce, Ministry of Women Affairs, and traditional institutions, aimed to strengthen community-led efforts to end child early marriage and domestic servitude.

The initiative recorded remarkable participation, with 26 stakeholders in Izzi LGA and 35 in Ikwo LGA, exceeding the initial target of 20 participants per location. Participants included traditional rulers, village heads, women and youth leaders, religious leaders, and government representatives, reflecting strong community ownership and commitment.

Key sessions focused on understanding the root causes of harmful practices, legal frameworks, safeguarding principles, social norms transformation, and the establishment of Community Monitoring Systems (CMS). As a major outcome, both communities successfully adopted CMS structures, elected leadership (Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer), and developed community action plans to drive implementation.

Traditional rulers in both communities commended AFJN’s intervention and reaffirmed their commitment to ending child early marriage and domestic servitude, pledging continued support for safeguarding and child protection initiatives.

This milestone activity marks a significant step toward strengthening grassroots protection systems and fostering sustainable, community-driven change across Ebonyi State.