Private Sector Engagement for Gender-Based Violence and Gender Equality Activities

The GITA II initiative, led by Joseph Ubeke, conducted a rapid analysis of partnership opportunities with the private sector to address GBV prevention and response in Nigeria. This analysis aimed to identify private sector entities that are currently engaged in GBV activities and those that are potentially interested in GBV prevention and response. The methodology employed by GITA II involved two main lines of inquiry. The first line of inquiry focused on identifying private sector entities that organizations conducting GBV activities currently engage with. This was achieved through online desk research of 28 companies across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as virtual surveys with 63 responses from civil society and implementing partners. Additionally, 22 phone follow-up conversations, WhatsApp discussions, and 7 key informant interviews with private sector company representatives were conducted. The results of the analysis revealed that companies are open to USAID partnership conversations and future engagements. Company CSR interest is linked to their broader company-wide goals and contributions towards Sustainable Development Goals. Other companies are driven by a desire to help communities in their operating areas. CSR investments are frequently tied to improving livelihoods, health, and education, and CSR activities primarily target women, girls, and youth. The analysis also highlighted the importance of understanding the motivations and drivers of private sector engagement in GBV prevention and response. Companies that are engaged in GBV activities are often driven by a desire to improve the lives of women and girls in their operating areas. However, there is a need for more information on the specific opportunities and challenges associated with private sector engagement in GBV prevention and response. The findings and recommendations of the GITA II analysis will support USAID/Nigeria and implementing partners in understanding and increasing private sector engagement around GBV prevention and response in Nigeria. This will involve identifying opportunities for partnership and collaboration with private sector entities, as well as developing strategies to address the challenges and limitations associated with private sector engagement in GBV prevention and response. The analysis also highlighted the importance of building relationships and trust with private sector entities. This involves understanding their motivations and drivers, as well as their capacity and willingness to engage in GBV prevention and response activities. By building strong relationships with private sector entities, USAID/Nigeria and implementing partners can leverage their resources and expertise to support GBV prevention and response efforts in Nigeria. In terms of implementation, the GITA II analysis recommends that USAID/Nigeria and implementing partners focus on building partnerships with private sector entities that are already engaged in GBV activities. This involves identifying opportunities for collaboration and partnership, as well as developing strategies to address the challenges and limitations associated with private sector engagement in GBV prevention and response. By working closely with private sector entities, USAID/Nigeria and implementing partners can leverage their resources and expertise to support GBV prevention and response efforts in Nigeria.