Niël Terblanché
A collaborative training session focusing on the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) was held on Tuesday at the Osire Refugee Settlement in Otjozondjupa region.
The event brought together officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, alongside representatives from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), and other key stakeholders operating within the settlement.
According to the ministry, the primary objective of the training was to deepen understanding of the distinctions between sexual exploitation, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse, particularly within professional settings and during the provision of services to community members.
Emphasis was placed on the heightened risks associated with the distribution of cash and in-kind assistance, which can inadvertently increase vulnerabilities to gender-based violence, child protection concerns, and other forms of abuse.
Participants were encouraged to uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of sexual misconduct and to maintain the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct in their roles.
The training also served as a platform to reinforce the importance of safeguarding human dignity and ensuring that all individuals within the refugee settlement are protected from exploitation and abuse.
The Osire Refugee Settlement, established in 1992, is home to a diverse population of refugees and asylum seekers from various countries.
Over the years, the settlement has evolved to provide formal education, healthcare services, and other essential amenities to its residents.
However, challenges persist, including the need to address and prevent instances of sexual misconduct within the community.
According to the home affairs ministry, the training initiative aligns with broader efforts by UNHCR and UNICEF to strengthen protection mechanisms and promote a culture of accountability and respect within refugee settings.
By equipping officials and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to identify, prevent, and respond to sexual misconduct, the training aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for all residents of the Osire Refugee Settlement.
While the settlement provides refuge and support to displaced individuals, such collaborative efforts enforce the commitment of both national authorities and international agencies to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals, ensuring that protection from sexual exploitation and abuse remains a central priority in humanitarian response efforts.
