a) Public awareness (BCC) on Human Trafficking
To this day, Human Trafficking maintains a low profile of awareness by the general public. Many Rwandans still have a vague notion of Human Trafficking only as a global issue and it’s a huge problem and with a big challenge to the Rwandan community. While it is truly a global issue, too many Rwandans have no idea that it is a huge problem in this country.
b) Shelter and Safety – Medical and Legal assistance
First and foremost, given the available resources, we do intend to provide a place of safety for the rescued victims. The location of a safe house is private and not disclosed to anybody else and has a number of security features to ensure the safety of our residents.
In collaboration with other existing bodies like Rwanda National Police, IOM, Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, among others, there is a plan to provide all the basic necessities including food, toiletries, bedding, clothing and any other basic needs. Upon arrival, residents are expected to be taken for medical screenings and provided with the necessary treatments. From arrival to departure, we intend to provide support for residents in their legal matters as well.
c) Individualized Therapeutic Program
Based on a needs assessment, we shall be providing each resident with an individualized therapeutic program that is tailored to their specific needs. We are so committed to sharing internal services such as short-term and long-term counselling. We also do plan to liaise with external service practitioners to provide the best possible care for drug rehabilitation, psychiatric services, and trauma debriefing, as well as providing opportunities for various support groups.
d) Skills Development and Empowerment
A crucial aspect of the restoration process includes empowering and equipping each resident with skills and opportunities. This is done so that each resident may be equipped to find a job, start a business, or continue with schooling to be able to function independently and have hope for a better future. Hope Iwacu Initiative is encouraged to provide a weekly skills development workshops as well as individualized training. We intend to place residents in short training courses such as Job Readiness Training, Computer Training. In addition, Hope Iwacu Initiative will be helping to place residents in long-term training courses, schools, internships or jobs.
e) Reintegration and Reunification:
Plans are set to work with our residents by providing the best possible care and services so that when they leave the safe house they go into their future equipped and empowered for life. Where possible, we shall be working with residents and their families to facilitate reunification. This includes creating awareness around human trafficking, helping the family to understand the needs of the residents and modelling open, non-judgmental communication. Where reunification is not possible, we shall work with residents to place them in alternative accommodations, such as a family, a rented room or a communal