Project Overview
The Trauma Counselling and Skills Acquisition programme is designed to support women affected by insurgency and displacement by providing psychosocial support and livelihood training.
The programme focuses particularly on women living in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps who have experienced trauma, loss of livelihoods, and economic hardship.
Objectives
The programme aims to:
- Provide trauma counselling and emotional support for conflict-affected women
- Equip participants with practical skills for income generation
- Promote economic independence and resilience among beneficiaries
- Encourage women to become agents of positive change within their communities
Programme Activities
The programme was conducted as a three-day workshop consisting of counselling sessions, training activities, and empowerment initiatives.
Trauma Counselling
The first day focused on trauma counselling sessions that allowed participants to discuss their experiences and receive psychological support.
Skills Training
Participants were trained in practical income-generating skills, including:
- Producing liquid soap
- Making pomade
- Sewing simple face masks
These skills were selected because they require minimal startup capital and can be easily practiced within local communities.
Alternative Narratives Awareness
Participants were introduced to the concept of alternative narratives, encouraging them to promote peace and positive messaging within their communities.
Seed Support
Participants received seed funding, tools, and finished products to help them begin small-scale income-generating activities.
Impact
The programme empowered women who had previously lacked access to economic opportunities and support services.
As a result:
- Participants gained valuable skills for income generation
- Many women developed renewed confidence and motivation
- Beneficiaries expressed strong interest in supporting education for their children and contributing to community development
The programme demonstrates how empowerment and education can help communities recover from the long-term effects of conflict.