In February, the French Ambassador to Botswana; H. E. Laurence BEAU paid a visit to our centre in Mochudi for the first time. The purpose of the visit was to learn more about how our French Embassy funded Freedom from Fear project was fairing. The project is our organization’s response to the increasing spike of Gender Based Violence and child abuse incidents in Botswana. Over 67% of women in Botswana have experienced abuse, which is double the global average.
During the national lockdown, brought about by Covid19 in 2020, many more incidents of abuse surfaced, thus urging Stepping Stones International to respond to this national crisis. The Freedom from Fear project increases awareness about Gender Based Violence. It also ensures we have trained personnel responding to cases as they arise and provides psycho-social support to victims of abuse.
As part of the project we also teach sexual reproductive health to adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), which includes making referrals to relevant service providers. Participants that are part of SSI’s after school program also receive private counselling sessions with our psychologist.
During her visit, Ambassador Beau engaged with SSI participants to learn more about how this project has impacted their lives. This project is made possible by the generous support of the Botswana French Embassy.
Watch the sit down interview between the ambassador and our executive director; Ms Lisa Jamu here discussing the project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgMqC02vc5I