Thirty-nine religious leaders from three high-risk communities in Suva have successfully completed a specialized training program focused on enhancing support for child abuse victims. This initiative was led by Dr. Koen Sevenants, a widely respected mental health specialist, and aimed to equip participants with essential psychosocial support skills. Innovative methods such as sports, music, and art therapy were incorporated to assist in the healing processes of children.
During the training, Fiji’s Minister for Women and Children, Sashi Kiran, highlighted the urgent necessity of child protection in the country, revealing alarming statistics: five out of six children in Fiji have experienced some form of violence. On average, the Fiji Police Force receives five reports of child sexual abuse each week, emphasizing the critical need for prompt intervention. Minister Kiran also pointed out ongoing efforts to establish a National Action Plan for preventing child abuse, alongside the implementation of the Child Protection and Child Justice Acts, which are set to come into effect in 2024.
“This training is crucial to ensure that every child who has been violated has access to emotional support and therapy,” Minister Kiran noted. She expressed gratitude for the partnership with Dr. Sevenants and UNICEF, stating their support is vital in improving the mental health of children in Fiji.
The program has resulted in the formation of a network of 20 trained child therapists who are now available to assist both parents and young victims, providing critical resources through the Ministry. Understanding the lifelong impacts of abuse, Minister Kiran underscored the importance of equipping children with the necessary tools to overcome their traumatic experiences.
Looking ahead, the initiative is set to expand to Fiji’s Western and Northern Divisions, aiming to increase the number of qualified professionals who can support at-risk children and provide essential care.
Given recent discussions about the significant shortage of child psychologists and the urgent need for action, this training signifies a hopeful advancement in improving child welfare and protecting Fiji’s youth. By investing in mental health and rehabilitation services for children, the government and community leaders are laying the groundwork for a more supportive and caring environment that prioritizes the well-being of the nation’s most vulnerable children.
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