NCD PHA commemorates GBV activism week

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority [NCD PHA] marked the Gender-Based Violence [GBV] Activism Week with awareness activities in the country’s capital, Port Moresby.

The GBV Officer and staff from NCD PHA visited Gerehu Hospital to speak to patients and share information on GBV as part of the lead-up program.

Gender-based violence is violence directed at someone because of their gender. It affects both men and women, but women and girls are at higher risk.

GBV includes physical, sexual, emotional, and economic harm, and it is a serious violation of human rights.

GBV Officer Sr. Regina Howard says that GBV involves harmful actions against a person simply because they are male or female.

She says the common forms of GBV include physical abuse, sexual assault, emotional threats, and controlling someone’s money, education, or work opportunities. GBV can happen at home, at work, or in public places.

NCD PHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Robin Oge said: "GBV damages a person’s health, dignity, and safety."

He added that stopping GBV requires strong laws, education, community awareness, and support for survivors.

Dr. Oge also shared that Gerehu Hospital will now serve as the first point of contact for GBV victims seeking medical care and counselling.

Meanwhile, NCD PHA remains committed to protecting everyone, including GBV survivors, across the country.