About SOWCHAN
Who We Are
Society for Women and Children Living with HIV/AIDS (SOWCHAN) is a National Network Organization formed as a Non-Government Organization comprising support groups of women and children living with HIV/AIDS across Nigeria. We are registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria with a board of trustees and registered members nationwide.
We are a leading HIV and AIDS, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights organization working with women and children living with HIV, women with disabilities, healthcare providers, young people, community and religious leaders, civil society organizations, the media, government agencies, and development partners.
SOWCHAN is characterized by committed, dedicated, and hardworking members and staff whose skills and involvement have proven results in saving lives and reducing the impact of developmental issues in the communities where we work.
Our Vision
SOWCHAN envisions a country where Women, Girls, Children living with HIV and AIDS, Orphans and Vulnerable Children are given equal rights and privileges like every other member of society.
Our Core Values
Commitment
Dedicated to reaching every target population across Nigeria.
Hardwork
Ensuring organizational vision, mission and values are met every day.
Integrity
Upholding policies and procedures with full accountability.
Transparency
Open and accountable in all organizational and financial management.
Our Approach to GBV & HIV
SOWCHAN Support Groups address gender-based violence (GBV) by creating safe spaces for women and girls to speak out, heal, and access support services. We actively engage men and boys as partners and allies in advancing gender equality — recognizing that sustainable change requires the involvement of all genders.
We acknowledge that gender inequality is a fundamental driver of GBV. Harmful social norms, unequal power relations, and discriminatory practices continue to place women and girls at greater risk of violence. SOWCHAN works to challenge these norms through community dialogue, advocacy, and awareness campaigns that promote respect, dignity, and equal rights for all.
We also recognize the strong link between GBV and HIV transmission. Violence increases women's vulnerability to HIV by limiting their ability to negotiate safe sex, access health services, or disclose their status safely. Therefore, we address GBV both as a cause and a consequence of HIV transmission.