Every year, millions of women and girls around the world are exposed to human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Behind every number is a life interrupted, a dream stolen, a family affected, and a future placed at risk.
According to UN Women, 10.3% of women globally live in extreme poverty, making many more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that women account for 48.1% of international migrants, many of whom face heightened risks of trafficking, gender-based violence, and exploitation during migration. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) also notes that women and girls continue to make up the majority of detected victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation worldwide.
While these figures paint a sobering picture, they also highlight the urgent need for organizations committed to restoring lives and creating lasting change.
A Place Where Healing Begins. At Genesis House, an initiative of Freedom Foundation, survivors of sexual exploitation, trafficking, abuse, and commercial sex work are offered more than a safe place, they are allowed to rebuild their lives.
The residential programme supports women aged 18–30 through a 12–18-month rehabilitation journey designed to restore dignity, confidence, and independence.
Residents receive:
- Safe accommodation in a supportive environment.
- Trauma-informed counselling and psychotherapy.
- Educational support and academic reintegration.
- Vocational and life skills training.
- Reintegration support to prepare for employment, entrepreneurship, or higher education.
The impact of Genesis House is reflected in the lives it has transformed. To date, more than 189+ young women have completed the programme, with many now pursuing higher education, running businesses, securing meaningful employment, and contributing positively to their communities.
One such story is Blessing, a survivor of trafficking who, after completing the programme, rebuilt her confidence, acquired tailoring skills, and now runs her own tailoring business. Her journey is a reminder that with the right support, recovery is possible and hope can be restored.
Ending human trafficking and sexual exploitation requires more than rescue, it requires prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term support for survivors.
By partnering with communities, supporters, and organizations, Genesis House continues to provide survivors with the tools they need to move beyond survival and embrace a future filled with hope, purpose, and opportunity.
By Nwankwo David