Exploring the displacement induced changes in social convoys and support for older women in displacement (OWD) in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

The world is witnessing a dramatic increase in displaced persons in Africa, Asia, South America, and, most recently, Europe. Within this population of violence-induced displacement are older women, a group that is mostly unseen because research and relief initiatives primarily target younger women and children. This study aimed to explore the changes in the convoys and support for older women in displacement (OWD). Qualitative data were collected from nine OWD using art-based convoys of concentric circles and interviews. The collected data were analysed in themes, and findings revealed that while there has been intervention from formal organisations to fill the displacement-induced support gap, supports are still limited, sporadic, not focused on the peculiar needs of OWD, not guided by any framework, and mainly material in design. The study concluded by recommending sustainable support to help OWD become empowered to cope effectively without aid.