AU trains security officers to curb conflict-related sexual violence in Somalia

The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said Saturday it has launched an intensive training program on conflict-related sexual violence for security officers in the federal member states to help prevent the vice.

The AU mission said a group of 30 officers drawn from police, intelligence, military and gender offices have concluded a four-day training program in Jubbaland State in southern Somalia on reporting, investigating and prosecuting conflict-related sexual violence cases.

Gloria Jaase Nkundanyirazo, AMISOM women protection officer who closed the training session, called for concerted efforts to combat the vice, which she noted, targeted women and children.

“We want security personnel to be role models and advocate for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and also push for laws that protect women and children in conflict and post conflict situations,” Nkundanyirazo said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

According to the AMISOM, conflict-related sexual violence cases are still high in Somalia, with the main perpetrators being members of illegal armed groups like al-Shabab and its affiliates.

Bernard Azagiszaba, AMISOM community policing advisor, urged Somali national security officers to work closely with residents in addressing sexual violence cases.

The training program will also be held in other federal states as AMISOM continues to transfer security responsibility to Somali national security forces.