PSEA Sensitization and Protection Efforts at Daudu Camp 1

Organization: HealthMedic Support Initiatives
Focus Area: Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Gender Equality, and Social Inclusion
Location: Daudu Camp 1, Benue State, Nigeria

Background

In line with our organizational mandate to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV), sexual exploitation, harassment, and promote gender equality and inclusion, HealthMedic Support Initiatives has strengthened its protection systems by implementing focused activities around PSEA (Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse) in vulnerable communities.

PSEA Committee Establishment

A key milestone in this effort was the establishment of a three-member PSEA committee at Daudu Camp 1, composed of:
• One female member
• Two male members

This committee serves as a local reporting and response structure for PSEA cases within the camp, ensuring that complaints can be made safely, confidentially, and with appropriate follow-up.

Community Sensitization

We conducted an extensive community sensitization session aimed at educating internally displaced persons (IDPs) on:
• Their rights to safety and dignity
• What constitutes sexual exploitation and abuse
• Available channels to report abuse or misconduct
• The roles and responsibilities of aid workers and community leaders
• The importance of survivor-centered response and protection

The session emphasized the zero-tolerance policy for sexual misconduct and encouraged open dialogue, trust-building, and survivor support.

Importance of Sensitization in Vulnerable Communities

Sensitization is crucial for:
• Empowering community members with knowledge of their rights and how to seek help
• Creating safe and inclusive environments for women, children, and other at-risk groups
• Encouraging community ownership of protection mechanisms
• Reducing stigma around reporting abuse
• Promoting gender equality by addressing harmful cultural and social norms

Conclusion and Way Forward

Through the establishment of a functional PSEA committee and sustained sensitization activities, HealthMedic Support Initiatives is working to create a safe, inclusive, and protective environment for vulnerable populations at Daudu Camp 1. We remain committed to upholding the dignity, safety, and rights of all individuals, particularly women and girls, while advancing the global goal of ending sexual exploitation and abuse in humanitarian settings.

Further steps will include:
• Continued training for committee members
• Regular community engagement sessions
• Establishing referral pathways for survivor support and protection