Africa regional sexual and gender-based violence network consultation: Technical exchange and planning meeting

In March 2008, the Population Council brought together members of the Africa Regional Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) Network for a South-South technical exchange meeting. The objectives were to identify best practices from existing programs, provide an evidence base for new programming, and develop mechanisms for South-South technical assistance. As detailed in this report, discussions covered the medical, legal, and psychosocial issues associated with SGBV prevention and response activities. Participants identified the following: Protocols and guidance documents are essential for ensuring comprehensive, quality response at all levels. Enabling access and utilization of the full range of medical services remains a core challenge of SGBV programs. Psychosocial care for survivors is underexplored. Although children represent a significant proportion of SGBV survivors, their special needs are not routinely or adequately addressed. Community awareness and prevention activities are increasingly identified as a necessary component of SGBV programming. Implementation can be fostered by the development and exchange of quality SGBV programming tools, including training materials, awareness creation, data collection, and surveys. The meeting also provided an opportunity to plan technical exchange visits and begin developing implementation plans for PEPFAR partners.