In Bo City, the Parliamentary Female Caucus recently concluded an impactful three-day workshop dedicated to the implementation of the Sexual Offences Act of 2012 and its 2019 amendment. Held at Galliness Paradise, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, all united by a common goal: to address the challenges of enforcing the Act and to strengthen oversight mechanisms.
The workshop kicked off with a powerful opening from Hon. Bernadette Wuyata Songa, the President of the Caucus. She emphasized the critical need for collaboration among all parties involved in the fight against sexual violence. Songa shared alarming statistics and personal accounts, referencing distressing cases that have surfaced on social media. Her message was clear: awareness must be cultivated within communities to effectively combat this pervasive issue. She stressed that the success of the Act hinges on continuous oversight and collective effort.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged with a range of expert presentations that delved into key topics. Hillary Gbedewah, a CEDAW expert, addressed the importance of parliamentary oversight in the realm of sexual violence legislation. Charles Vandy, the Deputy Chief Director of the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs, shared insights on the policy considerations behind the Sexual Offences Acts.
Another session focused on the **Status of Trials, Sanctions, and Offender Accountability**, shedding light on the judicial challenges and necessary accountability measures. Additionally, discussions on **Support Services for Survivors of SGBV** highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive support systems for those affected. The workshop also explored **Prevention Initiatives and Programs**, promoting community-based strategies to prevent sexual violence before it occurs.
Participants included representatives from civil society organizations, women’s rights activists, and various government ministries and agencies. The collective aim was clear: to enhance the enforcement of the Sexual Offences Act, provide robust support for survivors, and develop effective prevention strategies.
As the workshop drew to a close, Hon. Songa inspired attendees to implement the outcomes of their discussions. She urged all stakeholders to take actionable steps to ensure that the Sexual Offences Act fulfills its vital purpose: protecting vulnerable groups and fostering meaningful societal change. The commitment shown by participants bodes well for the future, as they strive to create a safer environment for all.
