UNDP and UNFPA Lesotho Launch PSEAH Training for Youth Development Officers

UNDP, in partnership with UNFPA Lesotho, has initiated a three-day Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) training for officers involved in the Lesotho Defense Force Youth Development Programme. The training aims to strengthen the protection of young people engaged in youth programs and ensure that all activities are conducted in a safe and accountable environment. The program was officially opened by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Lesotho, Ms. Taija Kontinen-Sharp, together with Brigadier General Rakhoro, highlighting the critical role of leadership in promoting safeguarding standards. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to creating a culture of respect, accountability, and protection for youth within the country’s security and development sectors. By prioritizing ethical conduct and preventive measures, the training seeks to enhance the capacity of officers to uphold the rights and safety of young participants.

The training provides officers with practical tools and strategies to prevent, identify, and respond to cases of sexual exploitation and abuse within youth programs. Participants are being taught to recognize early warning signs, understand reporting mechanisms, and implement preventive measures that protect both staff and beneficiaries. The sessions combine theoretical knowledge with interactive exercises, ensuring that officers can apply the principles of safeguarding in real-life scenarios. Emphasis is placed on the responsibilities of leadership, fostering a culture where transparency and accountability are integral to program delivery. By equipping youth development officers with these skills, the program aims to reduce risks and strengthen trust between youth participants and the Lesotho Defense Force.

This initial day of training marks the start of a continued partnership between UNDP, UNFPA, and the Lesotho Defense Force to enhance youth-focused initiatives. The collaboration seeks not only to address immediate safeguarding concerns but also to embed long-term standards that promote ethical engagement and protect vulnerable populations. The program aligns with international norms and UN protocols, ensuring that Lesotho’s youth programs reflect best practices in preventing exploitation and abuse. Officers are encouraged to share lessons learned, support one another in applying safeguarding measures, and continuously improve program frameworks. This proactive approach demonstrates the commitment of both national and international stakeholders to uphold the safety and dignity of young people involved in defense and development initiatives.

The PSEAH training for Lesotho Defense Force Youth Development Programme officers represents a significant step toward strengthening safeguarding practices and accountability in youth programs. By equipping officers with practical skills to prevent, identify, and respond to risks, the training ensures that youth engagement is conducted responsibly and ethically. The active involvement of UNDP, UNFPA, and high-level leadership underscores the importance of collaboration in promoting safe and respectful practices. As the training progresses, it is expected to foster a culture of protection and ethical conduct that will benefit both officers and the youth they serve. This initiative sets a foundation for sustained, safe, and impactful youth development programming in Lesotho.