A crucial training program was conducted by NAFIS Network with the support of the International Solidarity Foundation (ISF), both in Burao, Togdheer, and Erigavo, Sanaag regions, in order to strengthen the capacity of local civil society organizations (CSOs) and women’s rights organizations (WROs) in Somaliland to combat all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG). Ninety (90) enthusiastic people have attended the sessions, empowering CSOs and WRO staff for advocacy, social accountability, and community engagement in order to work on VAWG prevention.
The purpose of this training was to provide participants with the knowledge, abilities, and resources they need to effectively manage the complex issues posed by VAWG in their regions and to address the issue in their communities. Through the participation of people from various backgrounds, such as WROs and CSOs, the training sought to promote networking, cooperation, and the exchange of best practices in the fight against VAWG.
The training program addressed a wide range of subjects, including successful community involvement initiatives, advocacy and policy change strategies, and knowledge of the origins and effects of VAWG. And in order to encourage participants’ active learning and involvement, the program included interactive workshops, presentations, and hands on activities. Notwithstanding the difficulties encountered, such as scarce resources and cultural differences, the participants demonstrated their commitment and dedication throughout the program. Participants who were equally represented by the community acknowledged the significance of including staff who were both men and women in resolving VAWG cases and advancing gender equality.
Furthermore, the training program highlighted the transforming journey that these driven individuals can undertake by providing a thorough summary of the program’s goals, methods, outcomes, and problems. It demonstrates how the training program has benefited participants by giving them the skills and confidence they need to successfully fight VAWG and bring about long lasting change in their communities. Also, the training methodology employed a participatory approach, with ensuring active engagement from all participants in discussions and information sharing for their personal experiences. This approach fostered an environment where individuals felt free to express their ideas openly.
Finally, the training sessions utilized visual aids such as PowerPoint presentations and group work activities with the use of flip charts to enhance the learning experience. This was intended to create a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that encouraged collaboration and interaction among the participants.
Key outcomes
- Comprehensive understanding of VAWG: Participants obtained a thorough comprehension of the different manifestations of VAWG, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic forms, as well as the underlying causes that contribute to its existence.
- Development of advocacy skills: Participants have developed an advocacy skill by providing effective communication techniques, strategies for lobbying, and the ability to design impactful advocacy campaigns aimed at addressing and preventing VAWG.
- Empowered community engagement: Participants acquired practical skills and strategies to engage with communities in a meaningful and inclusive manner. They learned the importance of involving marginalized groups, identified key stakeholders, and developed the skills necessary to design and implement community engagement initiatives.
- Mastery of social accountability: Participants gained insights into the essential components of social accountability, such as transparency, participation, accountability, citizen engagement, and feedback mechanisms. Through real-world examples and discussions, they explored the application of social accountability tools like social audits and community scorecards.
- Understanding societal factors: Participants delved into the societal, cultural, and systemic factors that contribute to VAWG, enabling them to identify root causes and develop effective prevention strategies.
- Action planning and application: Participants gained knowledge and put it into practice by creating action plans for community engagement and advocacy. This hands-on approach encouraged collaboration, feedback, and real-world application of the acquired knowledge.
- Enhanced networking and collaboration: Participants fostered a supportive and collaborative environment, cultivating a sense of community. Opportunities for networking and collaborative action planning strengthened the potential for future joint efforts in the prevention of VAWG.
- Increased confidence and empowerment: Participants demonstrated significant improvements in their confidence levels, particularly in their chosen areas of focus such as community engagement, advocacy, and social accountability. This empowerment is crucial for them to become effective agents of change.
- Holistic approach: Participants have gotten a comprehensive approach to VAWG prevention by addressing not only the visible symptoms but also the underlying societal issues. This holistic understanding positions participants to contribute to long-term empowerment and sustainable change.
- Recognition of cultural context: Participants gained insights into the cultural context of Erigavo, enabling them to adopt a nuanced approach to VAWG prevention that considers local customs, traditions, and challenges.