In a world where well-meaning actions can unintentionally cause harm, safeguarding has emerged as a critical area of focus for development organisations. On July 17, 2024, I facilitated a comprehensive safeguarding training for the Benue Rural Development Initiative (BENGONET) held at the Lawyers Alert Conference Hall in Makurdi, Benue State. This training aimed to enhance the understanding of safeguarding principles and practices among non-government organisation (NGO) leaders, with the overarching goal of reshaping their approach to development work.
A glimpse into the training
The day-long session was designed to be both interactive and informative, involving 30 participants, including the BENGONET chair Mrs Ugboga and Mr Nathaniel Awuapila, who co-facilitated some sessions, bringing in their knowledge of the local context and safeguarding expertise.
Participants were introduced to the core concepts of safeguarding, including the three pillars of safeguarding, safe programming practices, and the critical role of leadership in fostering a safe working environment. The training wasn’t just about imparting knowledge; it also focused on engaging the participants in a way that encouraged self-reflection and active participation.
Key learnings and challenges
One of the most striking revelations from the training was the significant gap in safeguarding readiness among the participating NGOs. Shockingly, 80% of participants reported that their organisations lacked risk registers, and 70% had no formal safeguarding policies in place. This stark reality highlighted the urgent need for organisations to adopt robust safeguarding measures to protect both their staff and the communities they serve.
The training also unearthed a “saviour mentality” among participants, a mindset that can inadvertently cause harm by failing to empower the very communities NGOs aim to help. Participants learned that safeguarding is not just about protecting individuals from harm but also about fostering a sense of ownership and involvement within the community. This shift from a “saviour” approach to one that is community-led and empowering is crucial for sustainable development.
Another key insight from the training was the potential for organisational communications to escalate crises unintentionally. A case in point was shared when a media statement from a State Secretary led to a crisis in a community. This example underscored the need for careful and thoughtful communication strategies, especially in sensitive or crisis-prone environments.
Recommendations for the future
Participants expressed a strong desire for further training, particularly in safeguarding investigation processes. There was also a call to expand the scope of the Resource and Support Hub (RSH) to address broader Gender-Based Violence (GBV) issues beyond Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (SEAH).
The enthusiasm and engagement of the participants were palpable, but so was the revelation of critical gaps in their current safeguarding practices. Moving forward, it is clear that these organisations will need continued support and follow-up to implement and sustain effective safeguarding measures.
The training has laid a solid foundation, but it is just the beginning. The journey towards true and safe community empowerment is complex, but it is a transformation that is essential for the ethical and effective operation of NGOs in Benue State and beyond.
Conclusion
The BENGONET safeguarding training was a significant step forward in raising awareness and enhancing safeguarding practices among NGOs in Benue State. However, the gaps identified during the training highlight the need for ongoing efforts to ensure that safeguarding principles are not just understood but are actively integrated into every aspect of organisational operations. With the right support and resources, these NGOs are well positioned to make a lasting impact in the communities they serve, ensuring that development work is not only effective but also safe and empowering for all involved.
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