Photo by RET

Article by Gihugu Jean Baptiste, Project Communications Officer – EMEAA

MBERA, MAURITANIA – In Mauritania’s Mbera refugee camp, women from diverse communities and organizations came together during the #16Days of Activism campaign, uniting their voices and efforts to confront gender-based violence and create pathways for change.

Real Voices, Real Change: Addressing GBV at Mbera Refugee Camp

On the sixth day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign (or #16Days), women gathered at Mauritania’s Mbera refugee camp to share their experiences and learn from each other in a discussion about gender-based violence (GBV). The gathering brought together 91 women: 78 leaders from the camp, 5 from the host community, and 8 representatives of humanitarian organizations, including UNHCR and RET International. The purpose was simple but vital: to create a space where women could reflect on GBV’s causes and consequences, explore ways to identify and respond to it, and share knowledge that could strengthen their efforts. Using a real-life case study, the group tackled tough questions about how to better support survivors and prevent violence in their communities.

Photo by RET

Real Voices, Real Change: Addressing GBV at Mbera Refugee Camp

The discussion showed the power of women working together. Refugee leaders and host community members exchanged practical ideas and forged closer bonds with humanitarian workers. By the end of the day, the group had identified concrete steps to prevent violence, improve survivor care, and promote safety and dignity for all.

“I Refuse to Stay Silent”

For Zainebou, a member of the Women’s Resource Association in Mbera, the conversation hit close to home:

“These exchanges taught me so much. We learned how to better recognize cases of GBV and saw just how much dedication is needed to defend the rights of women and girls. It’s heartbreaking to see what happens in our communities, the violence, the injustices that strip women of their dignity.

As a woman, a mother, and a human being, I cannot stay silent. I will keep fighting, alongside others, to end this suffering. It’s not an easy journey, but every step matters. Inchallah, I believe we will see a day when women and girls live free from violence. To make that happen, we must all stand together.”

Photo by RET

A Path Forward

This initiative is part of Mauritania’s larger commitment to addressing GBV through community dialogue and coordinated action. It reflects RET International’s dedication to empowering women and fostering partnerships between refugees, host communities, and humanitarian organizations. By working hand in hand, these efforts bring hope for a safer, more inclusive future where every woman’s voice is heard and respected.

To help us continue this critical work in Mauritania and around the world, make a donation to RET today.