The Maru-a-Pula Project is an art-based intervention designed to address and provide community-based solutions to the pressing issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Harmful Traditional Practices (HTP) in Nigeria. Utilizing the transformative power of Forum Theatre, the project aims to raise awareness about GBV, HTP, and Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH), while promoting behavioral change and social empowerment among community members.

The project brings together individuals from various sectors—students, women, men, and people with disabilities—to engage in interactive theatre performances, allowing participants to explore, discuss, and reflect on critical social issues affecting their lives and communities. Through drama and open dialogue, participants will work toward solutions that help prevent and address GBV and HTP in their everyday lives.

Why This Event Matters:
Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Traditional Practices (such as child marriage, female genital mutilation, and intimate partner violence) are widespread in Nigerian communities, creating barriers to gender equality and impeding women’s rights and opportunities. The Maru-a-Pula Project uses Forum Theatre, a participatory theatre methodology that encourages active involvement from community members, enabling them to engage in meaningful discussions and act as “spect-actors” (audience members who also take part in shaping the drama). The aim is to inspire real-life action through awareness-raising and behavior change.

Event Highlights:

• Interactive Forum Theatre Sessions: Community members will have the chance to participate in creating dramatic performances that reflect the real-life experiences of gender-based violence and harmful traditional practices.
• Workshops and Training: Students and community members will be trained in acting, improvisation, and forum theatre methods to better understand and address social issues.
• Community Engagement: Members of the community will act as “spect-actors,” offering solutions and engaging in constructive discussions on how to end GBV and harmful practices.
• Impact Assessments: Continuous evaluation of the project will assess the outcomes and effectiveness of the intervention in raising awareness and facilitating lasting change in community attitudes towards GBV and HTP.

Target Audience:

• Students (ages 12-18)
• Community members
• Teachers, parents, and local leaders
• Men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV
• People with disabilities

Expected Outcomes:
By the end of this project, participants will:

• Understand the impact of GBV and HTP on individuals and communities.
• Be equipped with tools and strategies to identify and address GBV in their own lives.
• Develop the capacity to create change in their communities by using the arts as a medium for social transformation.
• Foster a culture of respect, equality, and active participation to reduce and prevent GBV and harmful practices.

How to Get Involved:

• For Schools & Communities: If you’re a school or community group interested in participating in the Maru-a-Pula Project, reach out to us for more information on how to get involved.
• For Volunteers: Join our team of passionate activists, performers, and change-makers to help facilitate the workshops and performances.
• Support the Cause: Donations and sponsorships are welcome to help us expand our reach and impact.

Sign Up to Participate or Volunteer:

Partners & Sponsors:
The Maru-a-Pula Project is made possible through the collaboration of Access to Play, UNFPA, local community leaders, NGOs, and partners committed to ending gender-based violence.

Join Us in the Fight for Change!
Together, we can make a difference. Stand with us as we use the power of theatre to address the root causes of Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Traditional Practices in Nigeria.