Africa-Press – Cape verde. On Wednesday, in Assomada, young people and community leaders from various parts of the municipality began a training program focused on leadership and community development. The program centers on the prevention of sexual abuse, aiming to strengthen local capacities and social mobilization.
Promoted by SOS Children’s Villages Cape Verde as part of the “Djunta Mon” project—funded by the European Union—the initiative spans three days and brings together members of associations and community representatives from areas such as Achada Lém, Ribeira da Barca, and Rincão.
In an interview with the press, project coordinator Adalberto Varela explained that this undertaking is part of a broader strategy for community empowerment, arguing that working solely with children and families is insufficient to bring about lasting change.
“It is necessary to involve the entire community so that it remains alert and prepared to take action,” he emphasized.
According to Varela, the training aims to equip participants with practical tools for more organized and effective intervention—particularly in a context where sexual abuse remains a persistent issue, yet one that is rarely confronted head-on. “Many people have heard about it, but few take action,” he warned, underscoring the critical importance of breaking the silence and promoting prevention.
Adalberto Varela further highlighted that the project prioritizes an integrated approach, engaging families, individuals, and local organizations, while encouraging communities to develop their own initiatives—including through the use of available funding. “We do not want to impose solutions; rather, we seek to value local ideas and capabilities,” he stated.
Among the challenges identified, he pointed to the taboo surrounding sexual abuse, which often hinders open dialogue and the search for solutions.
Nevertheless, he assured that the project combines preventive measures with response mechanisms—including emergency shelter for victims and legal assistance—through partnerships with institutions such as the Ministry of Justice, Acrides, and the ICCA, among others. Throughout the training program, it was emphasized that topics such as participatory leadership, effective communication, social mobilization, sustainable community development, and networking would be addressed, utilizing a participatory approach that encourages the active involvement of the trainees.
For the participants, this capacity-building initiative represents an opportunity to reinforce the work already being carried out within their communities. Analina Fortes, from the locality of Pingo Chuva, stated that she intends to apply the knowledge acquired to support families, advocating for greater unity among institutions, religious organizations, and civil society.
Meanwhile, Isaurinda Garcia, from Fundura, highlighted the need to raise awareness among parents and guardians in order to prevent situations of abuse, emphasizing that “protecting children is everyone’s responsibility.”
Spanning three years, the “Djunta Mon” project aims to strengthen the child protection network in Cabo Verde by fostering a coordinated, community-centered response.
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