The Association of Drinking Water Network Users (ASUREP-RVA) in Kindu, Maniema, recently organized a meeting to raise awareness among its members about preventing exploitation, sexual abuse and Monkeypox. This initiative, orchestrated by local stakeholders such as UNICEF/Maniema and the NGO Enabel, is of paramount importance in a context where the shortage of drinking water exposes the population to multiple risks.
The training session, which brought together 34 members of ASUREP-RVA, focused on protecting standpipe users against all forms of exploitation and sexual abuse. Indeed, the crisis situation linked to limited access to drinking water amplifies the vulnerabilities of women and girls, who find themselves exposed to precarious situations and risks of violence.
Consultant Amisi Kikuni, speaking at the meeting, stressed that humanitarian aid can in no case be conditional on sexual favors, emphasizing the need to protect the fundamental rights of individuals, particularly in vulnerable contexts.
At the same time, awareness of Monkeypox, an emerging viral disease that is raging in the region, was also discussed at the meeting. Participants were informed of the symptoms of the disease, modes of transmission and preventive measures to be adopted to limit its spread. UNFPA Focal Point, Ms. Fifi Kamana, stressed the importance of monitoring Monkeypox and encouraged ASUREP-RVA members to refer anyone with symptoms to the appropriate health facilities.
This initiative, financially supported by UNICEF through the Media Network for Development (REMED), demonstrates the commitment of local actors to the protection and well-being of the most vulnerable populations. In addition, she emphasizes the importance of awareness raising and training to strengthen the resilience of communities to the health and social challenges they face.
In conclusion, this meeting in Kindu helped to strengthen the capacities of ASUREP-RVA members in terms of prevention against exploitation, sexual abuse and Monkeypox, thus contributing to the protection and safety of users of drinking water networks in the Maniema region.