EASF Conducts SGBV Investigation Training for Trainers in Kigali

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has completed a two-week Training of Trainers course on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) investigation in Kigali, Rwanda, held from 8 to 19 June 2026. The programme, supported by the Kingdom of Denmark, brought together more than 20 participants from EASF Member States to strengthen investigative capacity in handling SGBV cases.

The training aimed to equip participants with practical skills and methodologies for investigating sexual and gender-based violence, particularly in conflict and post-conflict environments where such crimes are often used as tools of intimidation, control, and oppression, resulting in long-term physical, psychological, social, and economic harm to survivors.

During the opening ceremony, the Guest of Honour, Deputy Inspector General of the Rwanda National Police in charge of Administration and Personnel, DCG Jeanne Chantal Ujeneza, welcomed participants to Rwanda and expressed confidence that the training would enhance their professional capabilities and future operational effectiveness.

Speaking on behalf of the EASF Director, Col. Melance, Head of the Police Component, thanked the Republic of Rwanda for hosting the training and for its hospitality. He noted that the course was timely, emphasizing its importance in strengthening Member States’ capacity to address SGBV in their respective operations.

Senior Police Advisor to the Police Component, Mr. Allan Riis, highlighted that investigating SGBV cases requires empathy, patience, resilience, and courage. He encouraged participants to actively engage with one another, share experiences, and embrace diverse perspectives throughout the training.

EASF emphasized that strengthening SGBV investigation skills is central to its mandate of protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls, and supporting efforts to promote peace, security, and sustainable development across the region.

[3:06 pm, 24/06/2026] Mead Mubarak: The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has concluded a 2-week Training of Trainers on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) investigation in Kigali, Rwanda (8–19 June 2026), supported by the Kingdom of Denmark.

The course strengthened participants’ skills in investigating SGBV cases in conflict settings and enhancing protection for vulnerable groups across Member States.