We are proud to share that our Executive Director is currently representing Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE) at the International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) holding in Accra, Ghana, through Heartland Alliance, with the support of the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action.

ICASA remains one of Africa’s most important platforms for advancing conversations, innovations, and commitments in the HIV response. This year’s conference brings together global leaders, researchers, policymakers, community advocates, and development partners working to shape the future of HIV/AIDS and sexual & reproductive health across the continent.

Key Objectives of ICASA include:

  • Strengthening the African HIV response through evidence-based practices, research findings, and policy advancements.
  • Promoting regional and international collaboration to accelerate progress toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.
  • Highlighting community-led approaches that place key populations, including women who use and inject drugs, at the centre of the HIV response.
  • Showcasing innovative prevention, treatment, and care strategies for HIV, STIs, and related public health challenges.
  • Mobilizing political will and sustainable financing for equitable, inclusive, and rights-based HIV programming across Africa.

MIHRE’s participation reinforces our commitment to championing the health and rights of women who use and inject drugs, amplifying their voices, and ensuring they remain visible in global health discussions.

We look forward to bringing back insights, partnerships, and opportunities that will further strengthen our work here in Nigeria.

#ICASA2025 #MIHRE #HarmReduction #SRHR #HIVResponse #CommunityLedMonitoring #WomenWhoUseDrugs #Ghana2025

 

MIHRE at ICASA 2025 – Ghana

Today the 25th November 2025, Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), with support from Heartland Alliance LTD- GTE (HALG) through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action Project, joined the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to officially flag off the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Uyo.

The activity also marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, under the theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.” The event commenced with a solidarity road walk across major streets in Uyo, aimed at raising public awareness and mobilizing action towards ending all forms of violence against women and girls. The walk began and ended at the NHRC Office in Uyo LGA.

During the event, the NHRC Acting Coordinator, Mrs. Nsemo Etuk, commended participating organizations for their commitment and solidarity. She also reminded attendees of the upcoming International Human Rights Day on December 10th and encouraged active participation.

In attendance were representatives of HALG, staff of the NHRC, the entire MIHRE team, and other key stakeholders. The event strengthened partnerships, showcased unified advocacy, and set the tone for sustained action throughout the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

Unite to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls

As we count down to the flag-off of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, and indeed every day after, we at the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where women and girls can live, love, dream, and grow without fear.

This moment is more than a campaign. It is a call for collective awakening.
A call to unlearn harmful patterns embedded in our social fabric, relearn our shared humanity, and intentionally stand with survivors whose voices have been ignored, dismissed, or feared for far too long.

Gender-based violence is not always loud.
It does not always announce itself with bruises or threats.
More often, violence begins in silence—in the quiet acceptance of harmful norms, in the normalization of behaviours we should question, and in cultures that disguise abuse under the labels of “discipline,” “tradition,” or “love.”

These silent beginnings are dangerous because they create environments where violations are excused, survivors are shamed, and accountability is deferred. Ending GBV requires more than outrage when harm becomes visible; it demands the courage to confront the quiet places where violence is born.

This year, MIHRE will join the walk in solidarity with women, girls, survivors, and allies to say No More.
Our commitment is rooted in action and grounded in community. We will work to:

  • Sensitize and educate the public on the many forms of gender-based violence and its consequences
  • Speak out boldly against harmful jokes, norms, stereotypes, and silences that fuel discrimination
  • Believe survivors—not only by hearing their stories but by amplifying their voices and validating their experiences

At MIHRE, we believe change begins when people choose courage over silence.
When institutions choose empathy over stigma.
When communities choose protection over indifference.

The 16 Days of Activism remind us that violence is not an inevitable part of life.
It is a social construct, and what society constructs, society can dismantle.

As we walk, speak, educate, and advocate, we carry the hope of a future where gender-based violence is not just reduced but eradicated. A future where every woman and girl in Nigeria and across the world can live in dignity, safety, and freedom.

Together, we choose courage over silence.
Together, we demand a safer world for women and girls.
Together, we rise.

#16DaysOfActivism #EndGBV #NoMoreSilence #MIHRE #StandWithSurvivors #StopTheViolence #HumanRightsForAll #OrangeTheWorld #EndVAWG #BreakTheCycle #UnlearnRelearnStand

 

 

Counting Down to 16 Days of Activism: Choosing Courage, Confronting Harm, and Standing With Survivors

Today, 26th September, the world unites to celebrate World Contraception Day.
This day raises awareness about contraceptive methods, fights stigma, and supports informed decisions for all.
This year’s theme, “A Choice for All – Agency, Intention, Access,” is a clear reminder that every person deserves the freedom and resources to plan their future without fear, stigma, or judgment. Contraceptives save lives, reduce maternal mortality, and give women and families the power to thrive.
At Milestone Initiative, with support from Heartland Alliance-Nigeria and ViiV Healthcare Positive Action, we joined hands with the Akwa Ibom State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Marie Stopes International (MSI), The Challenge Initiative (TCI), and other partners to commemorate this day. Together, we spread the message that family planning is more than a health service; it is a fundamental right and a step toward equality.
We believe that:
• Women have the right to make informed decisions; therefore, contraceptive choice should reflect intention, safety, and dignity.
• All communities must have access to accurate information and affordable contraceptive options.
But we must also confront a hard truth that women who use and inject drugs (WWUID) face higher risks of unintended pregnancies and maternal deaths due to stigma, neglect, and poor access to healthcare. At MIHRE, we are committed to bridging this gap by integrating family planning with harm reduction because no woman should be left behind.
Through open conversations, we can break the silence, build healthier families, strengthen communities, and create a world where reproductive agency is a reality for everyone.
Happy World Contraception Day 2025

Celebrating World Contraception Day 2025

On September 11, 2025, MIHRE joined other key stakeholders in Uyo for the AKSACA 2025 CBO Meeting, which was an inspiring step forward in strengthening the HIV and GBV response in Akwa Ibom state.
The gathering highlighted the power of renewed collaboration among community-based organizations and partners, with sustainability, innovation, and passion identified as the driving forces for lasting change.
CBOs received capacity-building sessions on community engagement strategies and grant proposal writing, equipping them with practical skills to enhance interventions and mobilize resources.
The discussions also shed light on critical gaps in HIV sensitization and GBV response, underlining the urgent need for stronger awareness campaigns, robust data systems, effective anti-stigma law advocacy, and improved service coordination.
A highlight of the meeting was the recognition and presentation of certificates to validated CBOs as an affirmation of accountability that ushers in a new era of trust and motivation.
More importantly, the gathering reinforced a pivotal shift from reliance on donor support to a future defined by passion, innovation, and local accountability.
Together, we are shaping a society where health rights, dignity, and justice are not just aspirations but everyday realities.

Stronger Together Through Partnership

Fav a young female drug user attended one of our community sexual and reproductive health activities for women who use drugs, it was clear she was in distress. Her eyes, heavy with sadness, told a story of depression and uncertainty. She was pregnant, but unsure of how far along she was, or even who the father could be.

In her words, “Na one time like that way I been high well well to forget my problem, I no even know sey person been don use me. Na until I see changes for my bodi na him I notice sey I don carry belle.”

Fav‘s reality was one of neglect, trauma, and vulnerability. She had not received any prenatal care and had no one to turn to. Thankfully, she found the courage to confide in one of our community mobilizers. That single act sparked a life-changing response.

With compassion and urgency, MIHRE team stepped in. After an initial mental health session with our psychologist, we quickly leveraged the ongoing support from Heartland Alliance LTD/GTE through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action Project and Fav was taken to the nearest Primary Health Centre, where she began receiving the prenatal care and medications she so desperately needed.

But we didn’t stop there.

Recognizing the importance of economic empowerment in breaking cycles of drug dependency, we enrolled Fav in our Skills Acquisition Program. She eagerly learned how to make pastries for commercial sale, skills that not only restored her self-worth but offered her a real pathway to financial independence.

Today, Fav beams with gratitude. Her face tells a new story, one of hope, healing, and possibility.

She is one of many women whose lives are being transformed through the combined efforts of Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment and our incredible partners at Heartland Alliance LTD/GTE through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action Project.

Every woman who uses drugs deserves a second chance, and we are committed to making that a reality.

FAV’S JOURNEY TO HEALING AND EMPOWERMENT THROUGH COMMUNITY-BASED PROGRAMMING

Last Friday, MIHRE staff came together for an unforgettable team bonding experience within our office premises

The aim was to;
Foster collaboration and teamwork
Enhance communication and trust
Boost morale and motivation
Improve problem-solving and creativity
Support mental health and well-being

By bonding together, we’re not just having fun, we’re setting ourselves up for success as these activities will lead to:
Increased productivity
Job satisfaction
The overall success of our organization

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment, we believe that strong teams = better work & happier minds

Let’s continue to celebrate the power of teamwork and its amazing benefits for our mental health and productivity.

TeamBonding MentalHealthMatters ProductivityBoost MilestoneInitiative TeamworkMakesTheDreamWork

Teams That Bond Together, Win Together

On June 25th and 26th, 2025, the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), with support from Heartland Alliance-Nigeria through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action-funded project, partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Akwa Ibom State Command to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This year’s theme, “Drug Abuse is Dangerous: Break the Chains, Prevent, Treat, and Promote Recovery,” guided a series of impactful activities that emphasised community collaboration, prevention, and the urgent need for humane responses to drug-related issues.

Day One: Sensitisation Road Walk

The two-day event began on June 25th with a vibrant and well-attended sensitisation road walk that started from the NDLEA State Command Headquarters and proceeded to Ibom Plaza, then returned. Participants included representatives from security agencies, civil society organisations, media, youth groups, and concerned community members. The procession served as a public awareness campaign against drug abuse, as participants engaged the public with fliers, banners, placards, and anti-drug messaging, emphasising the dangers of substance use and the importance of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Day Two: Symposium and Stakeholder Engagement

On June 26th, a high-level symposium was held at the Ibom Hall in Uyo, bringing together stakeholders across government, health, law enforcement, civil society, and community-based organisations. The seminar served as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and forward-thinking strategies for addressing drug abuse and supporting recovery.

In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, who also serves as the Chairperson of the State Drug Control Committee, reaffirmed her commitment to youth protection and community wellness. She emphasised the urgent need to integrate prevention efforts into schools, families, and community structures. In recognition of her advocacy and leadership, the NDLEA decorated her as a “War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassador,” acknowledging her outstanding role in championing drug control and rehabilitation efforts across the state.

The NDLEA Commandant’s Address

In a compelling address, CN Obot Bassey, the State Commandant of NDLEA Akwa Ibom, applauded the collaborative efforts of civil society, development partners, and the state government in tackling the drug menace. He stressed that drug abuse poses a significant threat to national development, family stability, and public safety. Commandant Bassey called for sustained investment in drug demand reduction strategies, noting that while law enforcement is important, the real victory lies in community awareness, preventive education, and access to treatment services.

He also acknowledged the unique vulnerabilities of young people and women, urging stakeholders to tailor interventions that address social drivers such as poverty, trauma, and unemployment. His message underscored the importance of embracing empathy and a health-based approach when dealing with people who use drugs.

MIHRE’s Commitment to Change

MIHRE’s Executive Director also delivered a powerful message, reiterating the organisation’s dedication to harm reduction, gender-sensitive programming, and advocacy for the health and rights of women who use and inject drugs. She highlighted the need for community-driven models and policy reforms that prioritise people over punishment, care over criminalisation.

Call to Action

The event concluded with a collective call to action for all stakeholders, government, civil society, community leaders, and the private sector to strengthen partnerships, prioritise prevention, promote recovery, and break the cycles of addiction and stigma.

By coming together across sectors and voices, we are creating a future where people are informed, supported, and empowered to live free from the grip of drug abuse.

#DrugFreeCommunity #NDLEAAKS #MIHRE #BreakTheCycle #WADA #HeartlandAlliance #viivhealthcare #PreventionWorks #HarmReduction

 

International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2025

In May, the technical staff of the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE) proudly participated in a Project Review and Capacity Building Meeting organised by Heartland Alliance LTD/GTE (HALG) under the VIIV Healthcare Positive Action-funded project.

The session focused on reviewing project progress and impact, addressing challenges, and shaping a clear path toward more effective, inclusive, and sustainable programming.

Key Highlights:
Organisational Sustainability & Resource Management, Strategies for long-term growth, rooted in a clear vision, strong structures, and diversified funding.
Social Work & Mental Health, Prioritising staff well-being and the crucial role of social workers in psychosocial support, aligned with WHO’s MHGAP framework.
HALG’s human rights-centred capacity-building model is helping organisations like MIHRE grow beyond project implementation, strengthening institutional resilience and driving sustainable community impact.
#CapacityBuilding #MIHRE #HeartlandAlliance #VIIV healthcare PositiveAction #OrganizationalDevelopment #MentalHealthMatters #SustainableImpact #CBOStrengthening #CommunityResilience

 

Building Stronger Foundations for Impact!