Brigadier General Stephen Kashure, Joint Chief of Staff of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF), has highlighted the vital role of the EASF in safeguarding children, especially in conflict areas, by addressing their critical needs, providing necessary support, and facilitating the reintegration of child soldiers into civilian life.
While officiating at the conclusion of the Children and Armed Conflict Course at the Regional Service Centre in Entebbe, Brig Gen Kashure remarked, “children are being forcefully recruited and participate in armed conflict.”
He expressed confidence that the course effectively equipped disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration practitioners, alongside child protection actors, with essential guidance and skills to design and implement child protection processes benefiting children in both mission and non-mission contexts. “The knowledge you have acquired here is crucial not only for your personal development but also for contribution to our collective efforts to protect children affected by armed conflict across the region,” Brig Gen Kashure stated.
Ms Allen Ruhangataremwa, representing the EASF Head of Civilian Component, underscored the significance of the course in aiding children impacted by armed conflict, emphasising the need for heightened attention to their rights.
She explained that the course aimed to furnish participants with vital knowledge and skills on child development, protection, and rights. Key issues tackled during the training included detention, sexual violence, and effective collaboration with humanitarian organisations.
Ms Ruhangataremwa further noted that the course equipped participants with the tools to address child protection issues in armed conflict, including recognising developmental milestones, applying international legal frameworks, and implementing preventive and responsive measures.
Lead facilitator Mr Anthony Ombara stressed the importance of child protection in peacekeeping and support efforts, highlighting the course’s comprehensive coverage of critical topics.
He observed that the curriculum addressed various aspects, including the dynamics of conflicts, the evolving nature of armed conflict, and the legal frameworks governing child protection. Discussions also covered monitoring and reporting violations of children’s rights, along with the roles of different components of a multi-dimensional standby force in safeguarding children.
Mr Ombara encouraged participants to apply the knowledge and skills gained to uphold children’s rights and support their recovery from conflict, commending them for their commitment and dedication to this crucial journey of child protection.
The course attracted 26 participants from nine EASF member states, enhancing their capacity in child protection work.
