KENYA: Awareness against Human Trafficking raised

Stop Human Trafficking. We can all do something” this was the theme of the ever “Training of Trainers Programme” to create awareness to tackle Human Trafficking in Kenya, from 20th-22nd August 2010
The “Awareness against Human Trafficking” HAART Team initiated this process brought in participants from Nairobi, SOLWODI- “Solidarity with Women in Distress” Mombasa, Bungoma, Machakos and Eldoret. It brought together both Christians and non Christians who share a common concern at the increasing rate of human trafficking.

The programme was aimed at providing a background to Human Trafficking especially “What it is” and “What it is not”? Legislation in this area was integrated into the process. Human Trafficking was first seen in a global focus followed by variations found in Africa and what is actually happening in Kenya today.

In Kenya, the problem is focussed mainly on sexual exploitation, forced labour-young girls as house maids and boys as cattle herders - together with the sale of sexual organs for witchcraft.

The groups were offered facts and information in order to prepare awareness campaigns of their own. This included a CD of the all the printed matter used together with a DVD called “Wanjiku” which has been made locally and illustrates how human trafficking is happening especially to young women.

The participants were grouped according to areas; these would be their base teams whose progress will be monitored and support provided. “The Pastoral or Learning Circle” was used as tool for collecting information at all levels, listening, seeing, reflecting and evaluating on an actual problem. They were also given training in presentation for the Workshops together with how to gather information which is also necessary. Lack of information in this area is a challenge to its eradication. Networking is a vital issue throughout Kenya and beyond if change is to be effected in this area.

It challenges to all to remember “We are all made in God's image” and deserve to be respected and human rights have to be respected.

Fonte: CISA