How I Make a Difference as a Gender Equity and Social Inclusion Advisor on USAID’s Integrated Health Program
By Lydia Kalat Musa, WI-HER Gender, Social Inclusion, and Community Engagement Advisor
As a gender equity and social inclusion (GESI) advisor, I provide technical assistance to a wide range of stakeholders—this can include my fellow project-based colleagues, as well as external stakeholders such as government staff and counterparts, local organizations, and service providers. As a Gender, Social Inclusion, and Community Engagement Advisor on USAID’s Integrated Health Program (IHP) in Nigeria, this assistance is specific to my colleagues, the IHP Sokoto State Project Office, and Sokoto state government and service delivery counterparts. Through my efforts, I support this wide range of stakeholders to consider and integrate GESI into their work to improve outcomes. GESI Advisors may lead training sessions on topics related to GESI, develop tools for documentation of gender-based violence (GBV) cases and other health services, create job aids to provide information and support to healthcare workers on their daily tasks, and provide one-on-one mentorship opportunities with service providers. My work plays a pivotal role in building the capacity of health and social care service providers, individuals within communities, and stakeholders at large to foster positive change and build stronger, more resilient healthcare systems.
Enhancing Service Delivery: I work closely with service providers at various health facilities. By building their capacities on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health plus Nutrition and Malaria (RMNCAH+NM) service delivery, I support them to provide comprehensive and inclusive care for children, adolescent girls and boys, and women, particularly mothers and mothers-to-be as I walk them through the pre, post, and antenatal journey.
Combating Gender-Based Violence: My work also includes addressing gender disparities and promoting respectful and dignified treatment for all. Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a significant challenge worldwide and can severely impact the health and well-being of individuals and, by extension, communities. I facilitate sessions that focus on the identification of GBV survivors, how to document and present data via reporting on a GBV survivor, providing adequate care to survivors, and how to provide referrals to a patient. I am not alone in my efforts, and I realize that collaborating with stakeholders who can assist GBV survivors is paramount to the establishment of an effective response system. In turn, my efforts and collaboration can ensure that the operationalization of that response system is more coordinated and efficient, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary support beyond clinical care, such as social well-being opportunities, and documentation that can be used to present their case in the judicial system. In addition to my efforts helping survivors receive the necessary support, I also contribute to GBV prevention efforts by building awareness of what GBV is and engaging the community in how we can work together to prevent GBV, while also engaging and educating the community on GBV services and referral. Through collaboration, we are creating an environment where GBV survivors can thrive without fear, ultimately fostering healthier and stronger communities.
Promoting Male Engagement: Addressing gender inequalities requires the active involvement of men as allies and advocates. I facilitate male engagement initiatives that encourage men to actively participate in discussions and actions related to gender equity and social inclusion. By engaging men together, we can break down traditional gender norms and challenge harmful stereotypes—such as women being submissive to men—to reduce instances of GBV. Even though men are often the main perpetrators of GBV towards women, they can often be victims as well. As such, the specific needs of men should also be taken into account in activities related to them. When we address the unique and differential needs of both men and women through various approaches, we create a more inclusive and egalitarian society where everyone’s voices are heard and valued.
Ensuring Equal Access to Healthcare: Gender inequity often results in differential access to healthcare services and leaves marginalised individuals at a disadvantage. By working with service providers and building their capacities on RMNCAH+NM service delivery, I contribute to bridging the gap in healthcare access and ensuring that everyone can receive quality care, regardless of their gender or social background. This enables individuals to take control of their health, leading to improved overall well-being.
Creating Inclusive Communities, Promoting Social Cohesion, & Enabling Marginalised Groups: My work extends beyond facilities and reaches into the heart of communities. By engaging the Ward Development Committee Chairmen, I foster collaboration and dialogue between communities and service providers, ensuring that community perspectives—including those of the most marginalised—are heard and incorporated into decision-making processes at the health centres. This inclusive approach not only enhances the service delivery experience of the clients but also promotes community ownership, sustainability, and resilience. It breaks down barriers, reduces discrimination, creates opportunities, and enables communities to take an active role in shaping their own development, leading to more equitable and inclusive outcomes.
As a Gender Equity and Social Inclusion Advisor, I contribute to creating a more equitable, inclusive, and prosperous society. My dedication and efforts have a profound impact, shaping the lives of individuals and transforming communities for the better. This work serves as a catalyst for positive change and paves the way for a brighter and more just future.
