Sexual violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) can be especially problematic in complex emergencies and natural disasters. Access to quality, confidential, age-appropriate, and survivor-centered healthcare life services is a critical component of a multi-sectoral response to GBV in humanitarian settings.  However, this was limited in the Tigray region as more than 90% of most facilities were damaged, looted or destroyed according to a HeRAMS assessment conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

UNFPA, with support from the UNFPA Regional Office, in a significant step forward for addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Ethiopia, organized an 8-day comprehensive ToT training program to equip healthcare workers and partners with the skills and guidance for CMR/IPV services in May 2023. Attended by 27 participants (frontline healthcare workers across Tigray region, where subsequently 19 were certified as Master trainers -d 19 individuals as certified Global Trainers, authorized to deliver UNFPA-standard CMR/IPV training globally.  

A health facilities assessment conducted in preparations for the CMR training program revealed the dedication of health workers, despite lacking the necessary supplies and skill sets to support survivors. 

Ashenafi Gebre, ASDEPO Regional SRH Coordinator and a program participant, highlighted the importance of this training, saying “This training is imperative to ensure that our healthcare providers remain as dedicated and motivated as ever; and even more effective.”

This successful training program signifies a crucial step forward in strengthening Ethiopia's response to GBV. By equipping healthcare workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the initiative has the potential to create a lasting positive impact on the lives of GBV survivors across the country.

To date, the certified Master trainers by UNFPA on the Clinical Management of Rape and Intimate Partner Violence (CMR/IPV) have cascaded the training to more than 200 health workers across the region in 2023.