Executive Summary:
The UNICEF country Protection program head along with the Garowe office team visited the TASS office and the Garowe safehouse to monitor and observe the ongoing child protection services supported by UNICEF.
TASS the local partner in collaboration with the Puntland Ministry of Women Development and Family Affairs (MOWDFA). Implements child protection project titled; “Improving the Protective Environment and access to protection services for vulnerable children and women in six districts in Puntland” namely (Bosaso, Garowe, Galkayo, Goldogob, Buuhoodle and Boocame) The visit was productive, with the UNICEF team gaining valuable insights into the community-level protection work being carried out.
Key Observations:
1. Project Implementation Review:
– The UNICEF team reviewed the project implementation through a presentation and a documentary film showcasing the work done so far.
– They expressed satisfaction with the progress and the collaborative approach between UNICEF, MOWDFA, and the local partner TASS.
2. Visit to the Garowe Safehouse:
The team visited the Garowe safehouse and met with the community child protection committee members and social workers.
– The committee members shared the progress, and needs of the community, highlighting the relevance and sufficiency of the safehouse services.
– The committee members explained that they were elected by the community and work closely with them on child protection awareness, rights mobilization, and case referrals to TASS social workers.
3. Community Engagement and Collaboration:
– The UNICEF team appreciated the voluntary, community-level protection services provided by the committee.
– They inquired about the committee’s formation, selection process, and their collaboration with the broader community and the police for prevention and response interventions.
– The committee members shared their effective approach of working closely with the community and authorities to ensure a comprehensive child protection system.
Recommendations:
1. Continue strengthening the collaboration between the community committee, TASS social workers, and the local authorities to enhance the effectiveness of the protection services.
2. Document and share the best practices of the community-level protection model implemented in Puntland to potentially replicate it in other regions.
Conclusion:
The field visit was a success, with the UNICEF team gaining a deeper understanding of the ongoing child protection work and the valuable contribution of the community-level protection committee. The recommendations provided aim to further strengthen the program and address the needs identified during the visit.