On 16th September, one MONUSCO CDT agent held an awareness-raising session for 22 staff (8 women) from GHL (Global Humanity and Leadership Foundation) on SEA (Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) in Goma.

Of note, GHL is a local national association working in Human Rights, Education and Training in Goma (Nord Kivu).

During the Q&A session, CDT explained SEA and its consequences. Participants were also encouraged to avoid SEA regardless of the status of the partner.

Among the consequences, participants cited the situation of SEA-born children, discrimination, lack of social insertion, sickness (HIV, STIs, etc.), and pregnancy.

At the end, participants expressed their gratitude to MONUSCO. They are committed to report any SEA cases to MONUSCO and to avoid involvement in any such actions.

In addition, GHL staff committed to sensitizing their colleagues, to assess risks in each activity location, to collaborate with MONUSCO in awareness-raising and reporting/alerting as focal points. GHL staff also signed the personnel commitment forms in the fight against SEA.

CA Team remain committed to denounce every sexual abuse perpetrated by humanitarian agents on field.
Dr Patrick GIRUKWAYO.