RIBBONS

The specific problem within the Challenge that Ribbons aims to solve is the prevalence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in humanitarian settings, such as camps and shelter homes during natural disasters and conflicts. The scale of this problem is significant both locally and globally.

Scale of the Problem:

• Local Communities: In local communities affected by humanitarian crises, GBV is a pervasive issue. Displacement, disrupted social structures, and resource scarcity create an environment where GBV can thrive. Many survivors in these settings lack access to timely and safe support services.

• Global Impact: On a global scale, millions of individuals living in humanitarian settings are affected by GBV. According to the United Nations, approximately 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence, often perpetrated by intimate partners. In conflict and disaster-affected areas, the vulnerability of individuals to GBV is amplified.

Factors Contributing to the Problem:

• Displacement: People forced to live in camps or temporary shelter homes due to conflicts or natural disasters are often at higher risk of GBV. Displacement disrupts social networks and security.

• Lack of Awareness: Many survivors and at-risk individuals in these settings are unaware of the available GBV support services due to limited access to information.

• Fear of Reporting: Fear of reprisal and stigma often prevent survivors from reporting GBV incidents, leaving them without access to assistance.

Relevance of Ribbons:

• Ribbons addresses this problem by providing a safe, anonymous, and accessible platform that increases awareness of available GBV services within these humanitarian settings. By connecting survivors and at-risk individuals to support services, Ribbons plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of GBV. Its offline model ensures that information is accessible even in resource-constrained environments.

Local and Global Statistics:

• The exact statistics vary by region and conflict, but the global prevalence of GBV in humanitarian settings is well-documented. For instance, the UNHCR reported in 2020 that incidents of GBV had surged significantly in refugee camps due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• According to the World Health Organization, during humanitarian emergencies, the risk of GBV can double or even triple, affecting millions of people.

In summary, Ribbons addresses a pressing issue with global and local implications, providing a lifeline for GBV survivors and those at risk in humanitarian crises by bridging the gap between them and vital support services.

Ribbons is a GBV Mobile and Web-Application designed for people in most remote settings and communities providing them with an offline service for reporting GBV as well as for support services. Ribbons is an offline end-to-end Model that uses an integrated voice routing protocol, a USSD, and as well as an SMS platform designed for survivors/victims for specific services or for reporting emergency request such as incidents of violence.

How Ribbon works

• Survivors/victims can place request/reporting from both offline technologies (IVR, USSD and  SMS), with the language translation API available, they can send to registered officers support desk, the Officer receives this reporting on his dashboard in his preferred language.
• In Cases of emergency where Victims/survivors have no time to go IVR and choose option, Victims/Survivors will use a speed Dial short code which routes to a Specific support Help Desk for immediate response and follow up.
• The Help Desk processes the requests/reporting received via SMS, USSD or IVRs and all the request are received on the Ribbons platform. The platform uses a unique algorithm thereby segregating request based on type and priority on the dashboard that can be passed on to respective focal points mobile for providing services such as medical, psychosocial, GBV response and other services provided in humanitarian crisis.
• Once support/response is provided, focal points close requests and gets it updated in their dashboard.
• The help desk gets an automated alert that the cases are resolved. Once resolved the algorithm from the Help desk support officer’s Dashboard sends an automated SMS in the preferred or selected language to victims/survivors that their case has been resolved.

Ribbons serves individuals living in humanitarian settings, primarily GBV survivors and those at risk of GBV. These individuals often face dire circumstances and are currently underserved in several ways:

1. Lack of Access to Services: GBV survivors and at-risk individuals in camps and shelter homes often lack access to timely and safe support services. They may not know where to turn for help, and the available services are not easily accessible.

2. Anonymity and Safety: Reporting GBV incidents can be dangerous in these settings. Survivors often fear reprisal or stigma associated with speaking out, making it challenging to access support.

3. Information Gap: There is a significant information gap regarding available services in humanitarian settings. Many individuals are unaware of the resources and support networks that could aid them in their time of need.

Ribbons will directly and meaningfully impact the lives of this target population in the following ways:

1. Increased Awareness: Ribbons will bridge the information gap by providing detailed information about available GBV support services, including their locations and contact details. This awareness is critical for survivors and those at risk to access the help they need.

2. Anonymity and Safety: Ribbons' anonymous access ensures that individuals can seek assistance without fear of reprisal. The platform offers a discreet channel for reporting incidents and requesting help, enhancing their safety and security.

3. Timely Assistance: Ribbons will expedite the process of connecting survivors and at-risk individuals to support services. In times of crisis, a swift response can be the difference between safety and further harm.

4. Resource Optimization: By streamlining the process of accessing services, Ribbons can help humanitarian organizations and agencies allocate resources more efficiently to respond to GBV incidents, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

5. Empowerment: By facilitating access to support services, Ribbons empowers individuals in these settings to take control of their situations and seek the assistance they need to recover from GBV incidents or avoid them altogether.

In summary, Ribbons is designed to directly improve the lives of GBV survivors and those at risk in humanitarian settings by ensuring they have the information and support they need to escape the cycle of violence, thus fostering safer and more secure environments within these communities.

"Our team Ms. Salma Gambo is well-positioned to deliver the Ribbons solution due to our collective experience, dedication, and proximity to the communities we are serving. Our Team Lead and key team members have deep roots in humanitarian work and GBV prevention. We believe in grassroots engagement and have taken several steps to understand the needs of the communities we serve:

1. Community-Centered Approach: Our Team Lead has direct experience working with GBV survivors and at-risk individuals in humanitarian settings. She has spent several years in these communities, building trust and understanding the specific challenges they face.

2. Local Partnerships: We have established partnerships with local NGOs such as Bridge Connect Africa, social workers, and community leaders within these settings. Their insights and feedback are invaluable in shaping the Ribbons platform to meet the unique needs of the community.

3. User Feedback: Our solution's design and development are guided by input from the communities we serve. We have conducted focus groups, surveys, and one-on-one interviews with survivors and at-risk individuals to gather their ideas and preferences.

4. Iterative Design Process: We have adopted an iterative design approach, allowing us to refine the Ribbons platform based on real-time feedback. This ensures that our solution remains responsive to the evolving needs and preferences of the target population.

5. Cultural Sensitivity: Our team recognizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in GBV prevention. We have team members who are representative of the communities we serve, ensuring that our solution is culturally appropriate and respectful of local norms.

6. Training and Capacity Building: In addition to delivering the Ribbons platform, our team is committed to training and capacity-building efforts within these communities, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to take control of their safety and well-being.

In conclusion, our team's experience, community engagement, and commitment to a community-centered approach make us the right people to design and deliver the Ribbons solution. We are dedicated to ensuring that our solution truly meets the needs and preferences of the communities we serve, empowering them to combat GBV in their unique humanitarian settings."

 here's how Ribbons has evolved from a concept to a prototype:

1. MVP Development: We've successfully developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of Ribbons, which includes the core features and functionalities necessary for its operation.

2. Offline Functionality: Ribbons incorporates an innovative offline model, and this feature has been built and tested to ensure its effectiveness. Users can access the platform even in remote or disconnected settings, demonstrating its practicality.

3. Voice Routing Protocol: The integrated voice routing protocol is fully functional, allowing users to access Ribbons via voice commands, making the platform accessible to those with limited literacy or visual impairments.

4. USSD and SMS Platforms: The USSD and SMS platforms have been developed and tested, enabling users to report GBV incidents and request support services through these channels.

5. User Testing: Ribbons has undergone testing by real users in practical scenarios. This testing phase has provided critical insights into the functionality, user experience, and overall effectiveness of the platform.

6. Feedback Integration: User feedback has been actively integrated into the development process. This iterative approach ensures that Ribbons aligns with the needs and preferences of its intended users.

With these tangible accomplishments, Ribbons is a prototype that has transitioned from a concept to a MVP solution with real-world applicability. It is poised for further deployment and impact in addressing GBV in challenging and remote settings.

Ribbons is innovative in several ways, redefining the approach to addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in humanitarian settings:

1. Offline Capability: One of the most distinctive features of Ribbons is its offline model. While many existing solutions rely on continuous internet connectivity, Ribbons can operate without it. This is a game-changer in remote or disaster-stricken areas where internet access may be scarce, ensuring that GBV survivors and those at risk can access support services regardless of connectivity.

2. Multi-Channel Access: Ribbons leverages multiple communication channels, including integrated voice routing, USSD, and SMS. This multi-channel approach accommodates a wide range of users, including those with limited literacy or accessibility challenges, making GBV reporting and access to services more inclusive.

3. User-Centered Design: Ribbons is designed with a strong focus on the user experience. By engaging directly with survivors and those at risk and incorporating their feedback, the platform ensures that it caters to the unique needs and preferences of the target population, making it more effective and user-friendly.

4. Community Collaboration: By collaborating with Bridge Connect Africa, a Girl child NGO in Africa, Ribbons fosters community involvement and ensures that the voices and insights of girls and women are at the forefront of the solution's development. This approach catalyzes broader positive impacts by empowering local communities and NGOs to take charge of GBV prevention in their regions.

5. Technology Stack: Ribbons effectively leverages both existing and emerging technologies to address GBV. The use of USSD, integrated voice routing, and SMS platforms, along with the offline model, showcases innovative application of technology in a humanitarian context. This tech underpinning is a pioneering approach that can set new standards in the field of GBV prevention.

6. Market Transformation: Ribbons has the potential to change the market by redefining the expectations for GBV support solutions. Its offline capabilities, multi-channel access, and user-centric design are likely to influence the development of similar solutions and encourage a shift toward more inclusive and innovative approaches in the GBV prevention space.

In summary, Ribbons stands out for its innovative combination of technology, user-centered design, and community collaboration. It addresses GBV in a more accessible, inclusive, and reliable manner, potentially setting a new standard for solutions in this critical space.

Ribbons' Impact Goals for the Next Year:

1. Increase User Adoption: In the next year, our primary goal is to have a significant number of users adopt the Ribbons platform, reaching a target of at least 10,000 users across various humanitarian settings.

2. Reduce GBV Incidents: We aim to report a measurable reduction in the incidence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) within the communities using Ribbons, with a specific focus on reducing GBV by at least 20% in these areas.

3. Community Empowerment: Our goal is to empower at least 50 local community leaders and organizations in utilizing Ribbons for GBV prevention and support services within their respective communities.

Ribbons' Impact Goals for the Next Five Years:

1. Scale Adoption: Over the next five years, we aim to scale Ribbons to be adopted by at least 100,000 users in humanitarian settings globally, ensuring it reaches underserved populations.

2. Global Reduction in GBV: Our long-term goal is to make a meaningful contribution to global efforts to reduce GBV incidents by at least 50%, demonstrating the tangible impact of Ribbons on creating safer communities.

3. Gender Equity: We aim to support and empower gender equity initiatives in at least 20 humanitarian settings, working collaboratively with local NGOs and community leaders to foster gender equality.

4. Policy Advocacy: We will actively engage with international organizations and governments to advocate for policies and funding that prioritize GBV prevention and support in humanitarian settings.

To achieve these goals, our strategy includes:

• Continuous User Engagement: We will maintain active engagement with users and communities to ensure the Ribbons platform aligns with their evolving needs and preferences.

• Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborating with organizations and NGOs that share our vision is essential for broader impact. These partnerships will allow for the scalable deployment of Ribbons.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: We will leverage data analytics to monitor progress, adapt to changing conditions, and make data-informed decisions to meet our impact goals.

• Capacity Building: Empowering local communities and organizations to take the lead in GBV prevention will be an integral part of our strategy.

• Advocacy and Awareness: Advocating for the importance of GBV prevention and support in humanitarian settings on a global scale is crucial for creating long-term impact.

Through these strategic initiatives, Ribbons aims to drive transformative change in the lives of those affected by GBV in humanitarian settings, contributing to the achievement of relevant UN Sustainable Development Goals indicators.

The theory of change for Ribbons is straightforward and impactful:

Problem Statement: In humanitarian settings, individuals, especially women and girls, are at risk of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). They often lack awareness of available support services, face barriers to reporting incidents, and live with the fear of violence.

Activities:

1. Develop and Deploy Ribbons: We've created Ribbons, a user-friendly mobile and web application that offers an offline platform for reporting GBV incidents and accessing support services.

2. User Engagement and Feedback: We actively engage with users and communities to ensure Ribbons aligns with their needs and preferences. Feedback from survivors and those at risk is integrated to improve the platform continuously.

3. Community Empowerment: We collaborate with local NGOs, such as Bridge Connect Africa, to empower communities in using Ribbons to prevent and respond to GBV.

Outputs:

1. Increased Awareness: Ribbons provides comprehensive information on available support services, increasing awareness among users.

2. Anonymity and Safety: The platform ensures anonymous reporting, reducing fear and stigma associated with GBV reporting.

3. Swift Assistance: Ribbons expedites the connection between users and support services, ensuring timely help in emergency situations.

4. Capacity Building: Community leaders and organizations are empowered to take the lead in GBV prevention and support.

Outcomes:

1. Reduction in GBV: The increased awareness, reporting, and access to support services lead to a measurable reduction in GBV incidents within communities using Ribbons.

2. Empowerment and Inclusion: Girls and women are empowered to take control of their safety and well-being, fostering gender equality and inclusion.

3. Policy Influence: Ribbons' impact influences policies and funding priorities, leading to broader systemic changes in GBV prevention and response in humanitarian settings.

In simple terms, Ribbons provides a tool for individuals to access help and support in the face of GBV. By bridging the gap between survivors and services, it contributes to reducing GBV incidents and fostering community empowerment and gender equity. It is a catalyst for positive change, both on an individual level and at a systemic level, advocating for safer and more inclusive humanitarian settings.

We are a Team of 5

3 females

2 males

The past 2years

Ribbons is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level of our work. Our approach includes the following:

1. Diverse Leadership Team: Our team leadership includes a strong representation of women. The Team Lead and front-end developers are women, showcasing our commitment to gender diversity and leadership.

2. Team Composition: Ribbons maintains a balanced gender composition within the team, with three women and two men. We aim to create an environment where all members, regardless of gender, can contribute and lead in meaningful ways.

3. User-Centered Design: Our approach to user engagement includes actively seeking input and feedback from the target population, which ensures that Ribbons is inclusive and meets the needs of a diverse range of users.

4. Community Collaboration: Our partnership with Bridge Connect Africa, a Girl child NGO in Africa, emphasizes our commitment to working with diverse communities and local organizations that are often marginalized.

5. Advocacy for Gender Equity: Ribbons actively advocates for gender equity and supports initiatives that empower girls and women in humanitarian settings.

Our team's goals include:

• Continuously expanding our gender-diverse team.
• Fostering an inclusive work environment that welcomes diverse perspectives.
• Actively engaging with local communities and organizations, especially those representing marginalized groups.
• Promoting gender equity within the communities we serve through awareness campaigns and capacity building.

Incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity is not just a goal for Ribbons but a fundamental principle. We recognize that creating an inclusive and equitable environment is essential to addressing Gender-Based Violence effectively and empowering all members of the communities we serve.

Ribbons' business model centers on providing value to our key customers and beneficiaries, which include GBV survivors, individuals at risk of GBV, humanitarian organizations, and local communities in need of support. Our business model is designed to create a positive impact on these populations while also ensuring sustainability.

Products and Services:

1. Ribbons Mobile and Web Application: We offer the Ribbons platform as our primary product. This application serves as a user-friendly and offline tool for GBV reporting, accessing support services, and raising awareness about available resources.

2. Consultation and Training: We provide consultation and training services to local NGOs, humanitarian organizations, and community leaders. This includes guidance on effectively utilizing Ribbons for GBV prevention and support.

3. Awareness Campaigns: Ribbons conducts awareness campaigns in collaboration with local partners, spreading the word about GBV prevention and the availability of support services.

How We Provide Products and Services:

• The Ribbons mobile and web application is accessible for download and use by individuals in humanitarian settings. It operates offline to ensure accessibility in remote and disconnected areas.

• Consultations and training sessions are conducted both online and in-person, tailored to the needs and preferences of our partners.

• Awareness campaigns are executed through a mix of digital and on-the-ground efforts, working closely with local organizations and community leaders.

Why Customers and Beneficiaries Need Our Services:

• GBV Survivors and At-Risk Individuals: These individuals need Ribbons to access support services, report GBV incidents anonymously, and increase their awareness of available resources, providing them with a lifeline during times of crisis.

• Humanitarian Organizations: Ribbons assists these organizations in streamlining their GBV response efforts, enabling efficient allocation of resources and improving the quality of care provided to survivors.

• Local Communities: The platform empowers local communities to take control of GBV prevention efforts, fosters gender equity, and strengthens community networks.

Revenue Model:

• Ribbons offers the mobile and web application for free to users, ensuring accessibility to all those in need.

• Revenue is generated through consultation and training services provided to organizations, which may include NGOs, humanitarian agencies, and government bodies.

• Collaborative projects and funding from partners and grants play a role in sustaining the platform and its impact.

The business model combines a commitment to social impact with a sustainable revenue model, ensuring that Ribbons can continue to provide value to those affected by GBV in humanitarian settings.