Enhancing Community Actors' Knowledge of Gender and Human Rights in Siwai.
The Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation (NCfR) conducted a week-long Basic Gender and Human Rights Training in Siwai, South Bougainville, from the 7th to 11th of September 2026. The training provided participants with an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of gender equality, human rights and respectful relationships.
The five day training explored key concepts including gender, human rights, equality and discrimination. Participants reflected on how gender roles and expectations can influence relationships, families and communities. Through group discussions, practical activities and shared expriences, they examined the importance of sharing responsibilities within the household and promoting equal participation between women and men. One husband who participated in the training reflected on how his understanding of household responsibilities had changed:
"I used to think that the work at home was mainly the responsibility of my wife. After this training, I realized that the household is shared by both husband and wife. I can also help with cooking, cleaning, caring for the children and other responsibilities at home. We should work together and support each other."
His reflection highlights one of the important messages from the training - that promoting gender equality can begin within the home/family level through shared responsibilities, mutual respect and cooperation. Participants were encouraged to recognise the rights and dignity of every person and to consider practical ways they can promote equality and respect within their families and communities.
For NCfR, strengthening community knowledge on gender and human rights is an important part of preventing gender-based violence and promoting peaceful, respectful and inclusive communities. The training in Siwai forms part of NCfR's ongoing work with communities across Bougainville to promote gender equality, human rights and safer communities free from violence.
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