The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has concluded a two-week training for over 40 state security officers in Investigating and Preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (ISGBV24-1).
Speaking at the close of the program last week, Deputy Police Inspector General for Crime Services Col. Simeon Frank said officers have delved into some of the complexities of Sexual Gender Base Violence, exploring and articulating its root cause, the traumatic effects on individuals, communities, and society at-large, employing effective strategies towards prevention, response and deterrence under the rule of law.
He said the rule of law is fundamentally viable to the jurisprudence and must be observed during investigations as sexual gender base violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and its commission is a violation of human rights and a barrier to achieving gender equality and social justice.
“It is our impression that your discussions and learning experiences during this course have deepened your understanding of how SGBV manifests in different contexts and the importance of addressing it through a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach. As we progress from this course, I urge and challenge everyone to continue the commitment to legally combat SGVB primarily engendering a world free from violence and discrimination. Let us be advocates for change, allies and supporters to those who have experienced Sexual Gender Based Violence,” he said.
Remarking, Maj. General Richard Addo Gyane congratulated officers from across Liberia. Maj. Gyane said though majority of the officers already have command over the topics treated, but still humbled themselves in the quest to acquire further knowledge.
He said police officers brought to bed cross-cutting issues on investigating and preventing SGBV related to the various topics treated. Maj. Gyane said efficient and effective dispensation of justice is always dependent on harnessing the active assigned roles of all stakeholders and the respect for each other’s roles.
Also speaking at close of the intensive training course on Investigating and Preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Supt. Kendricks Teeky Doe said they as participants are filled with a deep sense of achievement and appreciation.
Supt. Doe said over the past two weeks, he along with his colleagues have delved into complex and crucial issues such as Female Genital mutilation and shared invaluable insights, and honed their skills to confront one of the most pressing challenges.
He listed the rich course contents including SGBV Dynamics, Crime Scene Management, Investigation Procedures and strategies enriched their knowledge base; adding, their skills and competencies in the investigation of SGBV cases have been greatly enhanced.
However, he said the knowledge and skills acquired must now be put into action and that the true measure of their success will be seen in the impact they make in their respective communities, workplaces, and institutions.
“We are now equipped not only with information but also with the power to effect change, to challenge injustices, and to support survivors and the vulnerable who have been marginalized and hurt,” he said. He said the fight against sexual and gender-based violence is not a sprint but a marathon that requires endurance, solidarity and an unwavering commitment to the cause.
