Page 3 - February 2025 Newsletter

Strengthening Our Commitment to Safeguarding

and Child Protection

At Africa Youth Trust, we believe safeguarding and child protection
are not just policies but promises we make to the communities we
serve. In February, we took a significant step forward in reinforcing
this commitment through a two-day intensive Safeguarding and
Child Protection Policy training, facilitated by ActionAid Kenya. This
training reinforced our dedication to creating safe spaces for children
and vulnerable groups.

In his opening remarks, our Board Chair, Mr. David John Bwakali,
highlighted the timeliness of this training, emphasizing its
importance in strengthening our safeguarding framework. The
session was also attended by our Executive Director, Ms. Winfred
Okumu, and Board Member Mohammed A. Hussein, showing
leadership’s unwavering dedication to this cause.
The training was a transformative experience that deepened our From left: Board Chair Mr. David John Bwakali and Board Member Mohammed A. Hussein at the
team’s understanding of safeguarding principles and equipped them SHEA Policy Training, showing AYT leadership’s unwavering dedication to strengthening policies
on safeguarding and gender equality.
with practical tools to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff
and the communities we serve.
Key Takeaways from the Training
1. Safeguarding in the Workplace
The training emphasized how crucial it is to build a safe and
protective environment for everyone. Participants walked away with
a deeper understanding of safeguarding policies and best practices,
ensuring that every individual, whether staff or beneficiary, feels
secure, respected and valued.

2. Reporting Mechanisms
A big focus was on improving how we handle safeguarding
concerns. Participants explored ways to make reporting pathways
more confidential, effective, and accessible. By fostering a culture of
transparency and trust, we’re working to ensure that no concern
goes unheard or unaddressed. Immaculate Kithika, Safeguarding and Child Protection Coordinator at ActionAid International
Kenya, speaks as AYT staff listen attentively during the SHEA Policy Training.
3. Proactive Problem-Solving
The training also challenged us to think ahead. Participants learned
how to identify risks early and implement preventative measures,
especially when working with vulnerable groups. This proactive
approach means we’re better prepared to address challenges before
they escalate.
A Cultural Shift, Not Just Compliance
This training was more than a box-ticking exercise, it was a powerful
reinforcement of our long-standing commitment to safeguarding.
While safeguarding has always been a promise, we make to the
communities we serve, this training deepened our understanding
and strengthened our ability to deliver on that promise. By equipping
our team with the right knowledge and skills, we’re ensuring that
every child and every beneficiary is protected, valued and
empowered.

At Africa Youth Trust, safeguarding is a shared responsibility. It’s a
promise we uphold daily; in every interaction and every programme Participants of the AYT SHEA Policy Training, supported by ActionAid Kenya, come together for a
we implement. This commitment reflects our dedication to creating a group photo after an insightful session on safeguarding and protection.
safer, more inclusive future for the youth and communities we serve.
As we reflect on the success of this training, we’re reminded that
safeguarding is an ongoing journey, one that requires constant
attention, collaboration and action. We’re committed to leading by
example and we invite our partners, stakeholders as well as the
broader community to join us in this vital mission.