They are trained to investigate, to speak out, to document abuse. This week, with backing from the Open Society Foundation and The Netherlands Embassy Ghana, the residents of Whistleblowers and Journalists Safety International Centre (WAJSIC) learned how to stay alive doing it and many said they wished the lesson had come sooner.
WAJSIC and Lazarus Training UK ran a five-day training on field integrity, first aid support and resilience for journalists, activists, whistleblowers and human rights defenders residing at the centre.
Participants worked through pre-development planning and risk assessment, personal security and travel safety, situation and casualty assessment, unconscious casualty and airways management, information and communication security, personal conflict management including crowds, basic self-defence to enable escape, dealing with bleeding wounds and ballistic injury, and anti-surveillance techniques.
The practical aspect overwhelmed participants, who emphasised they wish they had known these techniques earlier in their careers. Trainers reminded them that their positions expose them to danger, and that preparation helps them “escape or defend themselves when needed.”
Both French and English residents ended the training satisfied, hoping WAJSIC and all sponsors continue this training for many other beneficiaries, convinced it will help many others in future.
The chairman of WAJSIC Anas Aremeyaw Anas who graced the occasion urged all the residents to be strong in their quest to fight and correct wrongs in society. He encouraged them to take such training opportunities seriously and embrace the evolving trends of their positions and the associated risks.
He also entreated them to be conscious about their safety and security, stressing that the training was meant to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to handle danger and protect themselves while on field.
By Poasan Bernice Abanga
Source: Media Without Borders/mwbonline.org/Ghana/ West Africa
