Rapid Asia and representatives from UNODC and University of Benin following a training program held in Benin City, Nigeria.
Human trafficking is a global problem and the second largest illegal trade in the world. In Nigeria, a major target is young girls aged 11 to 18 years, who are trafficked to Europe for prostitution. Benin City in south Nigeria, has been identified as a major hot spot. Before being sent overseas, the girls are brought before corrupt local priests (Juju) and made to take an oath that they will repay any debt associated with their work placement. Not realizing the debt can be in the vicinity of 50,000 Euros they are effectively trapped in this savage form of debt bondage.
Rapid Asia is currently carrying out an evaluation study to look at the impact of repeated interventions over a longer period of time. The intervention is in the form of a series of full-day interactive workshops targeted to young school students. Program activities include drama performances, guest speeches, video screenings and discussion sessions.
Rapid Asia went on site and trained a team of 20 local enumerators from University of Benin, most of them being Master students enrolled in the Sociology and Anthropology program. Results so far look very encouraging.