FORWARD 2009 Annual Report

Dear Readers,

It is with great pleasure and excitement that we share with you the FORWARD 09 Annual Report “Empowering girls and women for a better world”. This highlights our programme activities over the period. This past year has been one of strategic growth at FORWARD and solidifying programme expansion and innovative community and youth empowerment projects in Africa and the UK.

In 2010, we will be focusing our efforts on strengthening links between Africa and the UK through the African Diaspora programme, as well as examining the sustainability of female genital mutilation support services and challenges small BME women’s organizations face in the UK. We will lobby for action and clarity on UK policy on FGM and asylum and commitment to engage with migrant communities to tackle FGM.

This past year, FORWARD has continued to advocate for improved sexual and reproductive health and rights for African women and worked with a number of partners to make this a reality. We conducted research on key concerns and took part in a number of events in the UK, in Europe, and in Africa.

We truly value your support and I hope that in 2010 you will continue to be a part of our family and help us make a reality our vision to Make Female Genital Mutilation History and to End Child Marriage.

On behalf of the trustees and staff of FORWARD, I would like to wish you happy reading of our Annual Report 2009 and we look forward to you joining us to celebrate FORWARD’s 25th anniversary in 2010. Do drop us a line on your views on our work, we truly appreciate your comments.

Have a Merry Festive Season and a Peaceful New Year.

Best wishes,

Naana Otoo-Oyortey, MBE
Executive Director,
FORWARD

CONTACT ADDRESS: FORWARD has moved office. Our new address is
Suite 2.1., Chandelier House, 8 Scrubs Lane, London, NW10 6RB