The Legacy of Saint Josephine Bahkita: Fighting Human Trafficking in Nigeria
Every 8th of February marks the feast day of Saint Josephine Bahkita, the patron saint of victims of human trafficking. In the Catholic Church, this day is a reminder for Catholic Sisters, along with their partners and collaborators, to pray against human trafficking, raise awareness, and reaffirm their commitment to ending this modern-day slavery.
Sr. Theresa Ani, CM – Lagos
The Nigeria Conference of Women Religious against Human Trafficking (NCWRaHT) is a network that is actively working across the eight provinces of Nigeria to eradicate human trafficking. Through their dedication and collaboration with the Arise Foundation, their impact is becoming more visible and effective.
Marching Against Human Trafficking in Lagos
For the past three years, the network of women religious has been actively engaging in public awareness campaigns in Lagos. Their recent march through the streets was aimed at sensitizing the public in churches, marketplaces, and on the streets about the work of NCWRaHT in combating human trafficking. Their goal is to be a leading advocate for human dignity and to educate the public about the realities of human trafficking.
The strategy of NCWRaHT includes town hall meetings, road walks, and social media campaigns, which have proven to be successful in raising awareness about this critical issue.
Your Voice Matters: Join the Fight Against Human Trafficking
NCWRaHT is dedicated to empowering vulnerable youths and rescuing survivors of human trafficking. They provide shelter, skills training, and support for reintegration into society. As we celebrate Saint Bahkita, their message is clear: “Be hopeful and be your brothers’ and sisters’ keeper. Your voice, our voices, matter. Let us unite and say no to human trafficking.”
Saint Bahkita: A Beacon of Hope
Saint Josephine Bahkita’s story is one of resilience and hope. Despite enduring severe hardships as a slave, her spirit remained free. She continues to inspire those who have been trafficked, offering a message of hope and strength. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, her life holds even greater significance as a symbol of resilience and courage. Just as St. Francis of Assisi is a beacon of hope for the poor, Saint Bahkita stands as a beacon of hope for victims of human trafficking.
Her story is worth exploring further. To learn more about this African Saint and her legacy, click here. Support NCWRaHT in their fight against human trafficking and be a part of the solution.
