EASF Concludes Specialized Training on SGBV Investigations in Rwanda

Kigali, Rwanda – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) successfully concluded a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Investigations Course held in the Republic of Rwanda from 16th to 27th June 2025. The course aimed to strengthen the capacity of police officers from EASF Member States in addressing SGBV in Peace Support Operations (PSOs).

The training aligns with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) 1325, 2106, and 2272, which call upon member states to prevent and respond effectively to conflict-related sexual violence and sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA). Through this initiative, EASF is enhancing its efforts to build a pool of specialist police investigators equipped with the skills and sensitivity required for handling complex SGBV cases in the context of peacekeeping.

Participants gained practical knowledge and investigative skills, including managing crime scenes, preserving evidence, conducting risk assessments, safeguarding vulnerable groups, and interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Rwanda Police Deputy Inspector General Jeanne Ujeneza commended EASF for fostering regional cooperation through training and expertise exchange, especially in the critical area of SGBV response.

Commissioner Bacar Ali Said, Head of the EASF Police Component, emphasized the importance of building and maintaining operational readiness of pledged police capabilities. He underscored that such specialized courses enhance the effectiveness of AU-led peace support missions and contribute meaningfully to the protection of vulnerable populations in conflict zones.

The training reflects EASF’s commitment to professionalizing peacekeeping deployments through focused capacity-building initiatives and upholding international standards in human rights and gender protection.