BLOSSOM Inc, an NGO focused on the fight against child abuse, has taken sensitization activities to Kwakwani (Upper Demerara- Berbice) in observance of Child Protection Week 2019, which was held under the theme ‘Promoting social change to stop the violation against children.’ The visiting team included Outreach and Communications Officer, Yvonne Barrow, and Coordinator of Region 10 Child Advocacy Centre, Melissa Chapman. At the first event, they engaged members of the Kwakwani-Regional Democratic Council, Community leaders and residents, through an informative session on the various forms of child sexual abuse (CSA), sexual grooming and tips to protect children against sexual abuse.

Child sexual abuse has been a burning issue in Kwakwani, and the Child Protection Agency has placed a resident officer in the community to make the services readily available to the residents.

Blossom’s team also educated students of the Kwakwani Secondary School, in an informative and fun session titled ‘Sports and Sex’ at the Kwakwani Inter-House school sports. The segment was used to inform the youth about the forms of child sexual abuse, age of consent for sexual activity and its effects. The children were educated through music and chants. Advocacy Officer, Melissa Chapman, related that the sessions were well received and future sessions will be planned.

Child Protection Week aims to increase the public’s awareness and understanding about the prevention of child abuse. Protecting children should be everyone’s concern, not just those who work at the CPA. Therefore, communities, religious organisations, various groups and individuals will be encouraged to take action to ensure that children are protected and their rights are not violated.