The Africa Research Foundation for the Safety of Women
Dedicated to advancing research on complex issues surrounding the health and safety of women and girls in Africa and minority women in the United States.
Our Foundation's Mission
Evidence-Based Research
We partner with grassroots organizations to conduct community-based research on critical issues affecting women's health and safety. Our approach is grounded in social theory and community participation.
Creating Solutions
We provide evidence-based policy solutions, advocacy, and community education through workshops and training for organizations looking to ensure the health and safety of women and girls.
Bridging the Gap
We recognize there is a critical gap in research necessary for creating effective interventions and policies affecting these communities. Our work bridges theory and practice.
Research Focus Areas
Violence Prevention
Sexual and domestic violence, campus safety, and workplace harassment are key areas where our research provides valuable insights for prevention strategies.
Sexual Health
We address HIV/AIDS, STIs, and reproductive health through evidence-based research that informs education programs and policy recommendations.
Community Education
Our work translates research into culturally relevant workshops, training materials, and advocacy tools for communities and organizations.
The Impact of Sexual Violence
Physical & Mental Trauma
Depression, PTSD, injuries, and chronic health issues
Reproductive Consequences
Unintended pregnancies, STIs, and pregnancy complications
Community Impact
Affects families, workplaces, and entire communities
Economic & Social Cost
Lost wages, healthcare costs, and reduced productivity
Domestic Violence by the Numbers
35%
Global Impact
Of women worldwide have experienced physical/sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence
30%
Relationship Violence
Of women in relationships have experienced physical/sexual violence by their intimate partner
1.5x
Health Risks
Women who experience violence are more likely to contract STIs and twice as likely to have an abortion
HIV/AIDS Impact on African American Women
African American women accounted for 29% of new HIV infections among African Americans, with 87% attributed to heterosexual contact. Their infection rate is 20 times higher than white women and 5 times higher than Hispanic women.
Youth at Risk: Teen Dating Violence
By the Numbers
- 1 in 3 adolescent girls is a victim of dating abuse
- Nearly 9% of high school students report being physically hurt by a partner
- 31.5% of sexually active girls report experiencing physical or sexual violence
Warning Signs
- Controlling behavior and excessive jealousy
- Isolation from friends and family
- Unexplained injuries or emotional distress
Our Approach
- Culturally relevant education programs
- School and community partnerships
- Evidence-based prevention strategies
FGM: Breaking the Silence
Understanding the Issue
FGM involves removal of part or all of female genitalia, affecting over 200,000 women and girls in the US. It leads to lifelong health consequences and psychological trauma.
Legal Protection
Federal law 18 U.S. Code § 116 makes performing FGM illegal in the US and prohibits transporting girls abroad for FGM. Several states have enacted similar protections.
Community Engagement
Our approach combines education, outreach, and legal advocacy to protect girls from FGM through culturally sensitive programs and community partnerships.
Our Prevention Strategy
Research & Documentation
Building the evidence base on violence against women in different settings and supporting countries' efforts to document and measure this violence and its consequences.
Intervention Development
Strengthening research capacity to assess interventions and developing technical guidance for evidence-based prevention and health sector responses.
Advocacy & Education
Disseminating information and supporting national efforts to advance women's rights through education, training, and community awareness programs.
Global Collaboration
Working with international agencies and organizations to create systemic change and eliminate violence against women worldwide.
Partner With Us
How can I support your work?
You can donate funds, volunteer your time, offer professional expertise, or partner with us as an organization. Contact us to discuss how your unique skills can advance our mission.
Do you offer training for organizations?
Yes, we provide customized workshops and training for corporations, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations on various topics related to women's health and safety.
Stay Connected
Contact Us
The Africa Research Foundation for the Safety of Women
- Email: arfswfoundation@gmail.com
- Phone: (734) 489-9487
- Address: 8 The Green, suite 8, Dover, DE 19901
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