posted November 27, 2023
In a definitive positive effort, the Edo State Government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are partnering together to combat illegal migration and human trafficking.
The focus of the collaboration to address mental health and psychosocial imbalances among vulnerable populations is a commendable approach, that recognizes the multifaceted challenges associated with migration.
The commitment to engaging communities through cultural events, such as festivals, is a noteworthy strategy. Cultural festivals provide a platform for fostering community bonds, celebrating heritage, and promoting a sense of identity, which can contribute to addressing mental health issues and psychosocial challenges.
The stakeholders’ dialogue held at the palace of the Onojie of Igueben reflects a collaborative effort involving various entities, including the State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism. The recommendations from the forum, particularly the emphasis on cultural festivals and traditional practices, highlight the importance of integrating local customs into the broader efforts to address social issues.
The outreach is to, among other goals, activate a commitment to get the people closer to their culture and seek cultural ways to solve mental health and psychosocial issues. This kind of ongoing collaboration and sustained efforts from all stakeholders will be crucial for the success of such initiatives.
The stakeholders’ forum attended by the Secretary to the Onojie of Igueben, officials of both IOM and the State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, among others, was an opportunity for the locals to call on the Ministry to support them in organising the Igueben Day and assist in reviving their age-long cultural practices to avoid extinction.
The assurance from the Ministry to provide technical support and participate in the proposed Igueben Cultural Day scheduled for December 29, 2023, demonstrates a commitment to supporting and preserving cultural practices. The scheduled cultural festival, with its diverse activities ranging from moonlight stories and traditional games to beauty pageants, cultural songs and dances, traditional food display, quiz competition, indigenous poem recitation and sports competitions, showcases a holistic approach to community engagement.
It is important to highlight that this initiative suggests a comprehensive strategy that combines mental health support, cultural preservation, and community involvement to address the complex issues associated with irregular migration and human trafficking in Edo State.