Rwanda National Police

Rwandan Police peacekeepers serving under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), have shared their knowledge on addressing gender based violence with their South Sudan National Police Service (SSNPS) counterparts.

The workshop held on January 27, was organised by the Rwanda Formed Police Unit-Three (FPU-3), a female dominated contingent deployed in the capital Juba. 

It focused on how to counter sexual and gender-based violence as well as conflicts related to sexual violence, among others.

Speaking to the trainees, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Janet Masozera, FPU-3 contingent commander highlighted the key issues and primary indicators of perpetrators of gender based violence.

She observed that women and girls belong to vulnerable groups and face varied forms of violence, which are either not reported or their voices not heard.

She added that it is the duty of law enforcement organs to challenges faced by victims of sexual and domestic violence.

“The plan is for them to take what they learn back and share the knowledge and skills with the other police officers in their units of the important role in ensuring that victims of gender-based violence are heard and able to access justice,” said SSP Masozera.

She explained that the police are often the first responders in SGBV or severe assault cases, and are responsible for gathering evidence, ensuring survivors obtain medical treatment and finding or guiding them to suitable legal remedies.

“It is our duty as Police officers and to always be on high alert to address the increasing incidences of SGBV crimes and conflict-related to sexual violence, help those seeking our protection and support because the factors that drive gender-based violence haven’t changed during the peace times,” she explained.

The training was part of UNMISS technical assistance and advise programs to South Sudan National Police Service.