In its strive to strengthen inclusive policymaking that targets vulnerability, The International Center for Humanitarian Affairs (ICHA)’s, Policy and Advocacy team leverages on its relationship with different organizations to promote community-centered approaches to humanitarian action.
The team seeks to support dialogue on key humanitarian issues through various platforms for collaboration between the government, donors, the private sector and communities.
Through this critical role, the policy team organized training in different regions ASAL areas. The purpose of the training was to empower not only the stakeholders directly involved in building the longer-term resilience of the marginalized regions but also the host and refugee communities of the areas.
The team conducted the advocacy and humanitarian diplomacy training in Garissa – Daadab area from 8th to 10th November 2022. The three-day training was designed to support camp leaders, refugees, volunteers and other stakeholders to enhance their skills in influencing and advocating for the protection of the rights of the refugees.
The team had another training in Kalobeyei – Turkana from 15th to 18th November 2022, involving refugees, leaders, and other key stakeholders.
They had several interactive sessions with practical ways of identifying partners in advocacy, coming up with key messages, developing strategies and lobbying with important decision-makers. The participants shared various experiences and had practical sessions on influencing and negotiations.
The training is facilitated under the Resilience Health and Rights (RHR) Project. The project seeks to build longer-term resilience in marginalized areas by providing access to services and primary health, including protection from sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and promoting the rights of those affected by displacement. The project seeks to provide sustainable solutions and support to vulnerable displaced and host communities in Wajir, Turkana, Garissa, Marsabit and Mandera counties.
