The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) in collaboration with the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS), and the International  Rescue Mission (IRC) have just concluded two sets of trainings on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).

The first training targeted sixty participants including medical doctors, nurses, laboratory staff, police at the Family support unit and social workers across the country to understand their various roles and strengthen their collaboration and coordination in responding to SGBV. The second training was specialized for fifty HIV counsellors, including People Living with HIV support groups to support victims of sexual assault as part of a coordinated referral response, focused on SGBV, Pre/Post HIV test counselling, confidentiality and Post Exposure Prophylaxis.

The objectives of the trainings were:

• To upscale HIV services (including PEP) in response to sexual and gender based violence.
• To strengthen the relationship and coordination among health care workers, family support unit and social workers in responding to SGBV.
• To increase the knowledge base on the linkage between SGBV and HIV and impact.

Opportunities and challenges that would affect the outcome of the trainings were looked into and key recommendations made.

• All sexual assault cases should be considered for PEP
• The law on free medical services on SGBV cases  should be enforced
• SGBV to be integrated into primary health care
• Adequate and timely evidences should be provided by the police and health personnel to enhance judicial action.

These trainings were supported from the Peace Building Fund through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Members of the High Table

NACP Programme Manager Alhaji Dr Momodu Sesay in the Opening Session

ART Coordinator Dr Sulaiman Conteh making a presentation on Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

Condom demonstration by participants