Training on Gender-Based Violence Case Handling and Management in Gatsibo, Musanze, and Nyagatare Districts
After extensive development, the Certa Foundation team, in collaboration with Kvinna Till Kvinna, has launched a comprehensive training module on gender-based violence (GBV) case handling and management. The Center for Justice and Advocacy (CJA) introduced this module through three training sessions held in July for justice sector actors in the districts of Gatsibo, Musanze, and Nyagatare.
This training aims to provide participants with a thorough understanding of GBV-related laws and policies in Rwanda. It also focuses on enhancing their skills in case management, ensuring that victims' needs are prioritized and best practices are followed. Key principles such as intersectionality, confidentiality, and collaboration through the referral pathway are emphasised to create a more effective and responsive system for addressing and preventing GBV.
The module includes a session on emerging forms of GBV, such as technology-facilitated violence, and strategies for handling and raising awareness about these issues. Participants also learned about laws like the cyber-crime law. Additionally, the training covered crucial aspects of evidence gathering, safekeeping, and collecting to ensure more convictions and justice in GBV cases, which are often challenging to prosecute due to lack of evidence but also aspects of intersectionality and best practice in GBV case handling.
This training represents a significant step in our ongoing efforts to eliminate gender-based violence, secure justice, enhance victim protection, and reduce secondary victimisation. By collaborating closely with justice actors and district leadership, we aim to ensure that victims receive the support and protection they need while promoting accountability and deterring future acts of violence. By empowering justice sector actors with the necessary knowledge and skills, and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, the Center for Justice & Advocacy and Kvinna Till Kvinna are working towards a future where all individuals, regardless of gender, can live free from violence.
Training Kickoff in Gatsibo District
On July 9th, CJA commenced this vital training in Gatsibo District. The focus was on equipping justice actors and district leaders with a comprehensive understanding of GBV-related laws and policies in Rwanda. The training aimed to enhance their skills in case management, ensuring that victims are prioritized and best practices are followed, including principles such as intersectionality, confidentiality, and collaboration through the referral pathway.
Empowering Justice Actors in Musanze District
The training continued in Musanze District on July 10th. Participants engaged in discussions to identify the most prevalent GBV cases and challenges faced in handling these cases. The training included a session on emerging forms of GBV, such as technology-facilitated violence, and how to handle and raise awareness about these issues. Participants were also trained on evidence gathering and safeguarding to ensure more convictions and justice for GBV victims.
Advancing GBV Case Handling in Nyagatare District
On July 24th, the training moved to Nyagatare District. Representatives from Isange One Stop Centers, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the Ministry of Justice (MAJ), and local leadership participated. The training emphasised the importance of a trauma-informed judicial response, victim protection, and reducing secondary victimisation. By empowering justice actors with critical knowledge and skills, the training aims to create a more effective and responsive system for addressing and preventing GBV.
A Unified Approach to Combat GBV
The module developed by CJA and Kvinna Till Kvinna also covered guidelines for personnel, working with vulnerable groups such as minors and persons with disabilities, and leveraging technology for case management. This comprehensive approach ensures that justice actors are well-equipped to handle GBV cases effectively and compassionately.
The training sessions highlighted the importance of collaboration among key stakeholders, including local and international organizations, to create a future free from violence and discrimination for all women and girls. By fostering a culture of respect and protection, CJA, in partnership with Kvinna Till Kvinna, is making significant strides in the fight against gender-based violence.
Looking Ahead
With the remaining districts set to receive training in August 2024, CJA is committed to finalizing and making the training module publicly available for GBV case handlers, particularly first respondents. This initiative represents a crucial step in strengthening our collective efforts to address gender-based violence, ensure justice, and protect victims across Rwanda.