We’ve seen progress, more victims are coming forward, and we’ve reduced the numbers of silent suffering.
Who is Geoffrey Sianga?
Geoffrey Sianga has become a powerful advocate for change when it comes to gender-based violence (GBV).
He lives in Zambia’s Western Province. Cultural norms have meant that many women and girls are denied their rights and GBV is an issue. In 2023, Geoffrey crossed paths with Oxfam and our partner, Young Women Christian Association (YWCA). He is now a transformed man.
Geoffrey Sianga has become a powerful advocate for change when it comes to gender-based violence (GBV).
He lives in Zambia’s Western Province. Cultural norms have meant that many women and girls are denied their rights and GBV is an issue. In 2023, Geoffrey crossed paths with Oxfam and our partner, Young Women Christian Association (YWCA). He is now a transformed man.
Oxfam and Partners' Impact
Geoffrey says he grew up in a world where violence against women was normalised.
After being trained as an Anti-GBV Champion by Oxfam and YWCA under the Irish Aid-funded Irish Civil Society Partnership (ICSP) project, Geoffrey is now a changed man and a champion for change.
What he used to see as normal, he now sees as a crime and he is a man on a mission to challenge the status quo and inspire his community to end Gender Based Violence.
His Work as an Anti-GBV Champion
“Most GBV cases in my community are muted because victims fear ridicule or afraid that their partners will divorce them if they speak up.
I now work with the community helping them understand the importance of reporting abuse and provide clear guidance on the channels they can use.
We’ve seen progress, more victims are coming forward, and we’ve reduced the numbers of silent suffering.”— Geoffrey Sianga
He collaborates with local leaders and uses their influence to reinforce anti-Gender Based Violence messages.
“Traditional leaders are the custodians of culture and hold immense authority in the community. When they speak against GBV, their words carry weight and resonate deeply with the people”— Geoffrey Sianga
Geoffrey also works with local churches to strengthen his outreach. In one case, he intervened in the life of a couple.
“This couple used to fight constantly, and the man would beat his wife almost daily.
I partnered with the church leadership to engage them in dialogue.
Today, instead of resorting to violence, the couple reaches out to me or church leaders when disagreements arise. They have embraced peaceful communication, and their transformation is a testament to what education and empathy can achieve.”— Geoffrey Sianga
Geoffrey’s efforts are creating waves of change, inspiring others to join the movement against GBV.
As a vocal ally and community leader, he is training men to recognise, address, and prevent abuse.
His dedication, courage, and ability to challenge harmful norms are paving the way for a safer and more equitable Zambia.
This is the story of one man who turned knowledge into action, sparking hope and change for countless others.
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