24 Oct 2024

Government has launched the Anti-Human Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the Referral Mechanisms, the Communication Strategy and the Trainers Guide framework.

The documents will guide operations for all government ministries, departments, non-governmental organisations and civil society organisations in combating human trafficking.

Speaking during the launch in Gaborone on October 23, Minister of Justice, Mr Machana Shamukuni said the framework followed the Anti-Human Trafficking (Amendment) Act, which commenced in February, where subsequently an Anti-Human Trafficking National Action Plan was launched in Mokgomane.

Mr Shamukuni said the SOPs and Referral Mechanisms were a guide that provided a systematic approach to stakeholders in identifying, protecting, and assisting victims of human trafficking, as well as in investigating and prosecuting offenders.

He said Referral Mechanism had been developed as annexure to the SOPs to guide all actors in the processes involved.

As for the Communication Strategy, he said the document guided efforts in combating trafficking in persons by ensuring that messages were communicated clearly and effectively.

Mr Shamukuni said the concepts used were simplified without omitting important details, adding that messaging used must respect the cultural values, norms and be sensitive to avoid content that could be considered sensitive and inappropriate.

He said the Anti-Human Trafficking Trainers’ Guide had been designed to equip all actors in the fight against human trafficking with the necessary skills and knowledge necessary to combat trafficking.

Mr Shamukuni emphasised that trainers should be knowledgeable on key distinctions between human trafficking and migrant smuggling, the vital elements of trafficking in persons which were act, means, and purpose.

International Organization Migration official, Mr Wonesai Sithole said the guidelines were in line with the standard migration policy framework and Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Mr Sithole said Botswana stood amongst a few countries that had completed the exercise of drawing the SOPs, which demonstrated the dedication that the government had toward its citizens.

He said this year the focus on human trafficking was about leaving no child behind as they were the most vulnerable when it came to issues of trafficking.

Mr Sithole said all stakeholders involved in the fight against human trafficking ought to remain steadfast and committed to implementing the SOPs to combat trafficking of humans. ends