The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched two new initiatives on the African continent to strengthen the humanitarian work that has been carried out in the region. In Kenya, the organization has launched a “Quality Control Centre” to support people affected by humanitarian crises. In Niger, the first reception center for victims of human trafficking in the country was created.
East and Horn of Africa
Providing relief supplies quickly and effectively is one of the best ways to support people affected by humanitarian crises. Thus, IOM, with the launch of the Quality Control Center in Nairobi, seeks precisely to ensure better efficiency in its performance.
“IOM is committed to deliver goods and services that are relevant, timely and of quality to address the needs of all migrants. The organization is increasing its capacity, both systems and human resource, to ensure that mechanisms are in place towards functional Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes,” said Joy Navarra-Valdez, IOM’s Global Quality Control Officer.
This is IOM’s second Quality Control Center in Africa, which already has one in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The Organization had also launched them in the Philippines and Turkey.
With the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), IOM also conducted quality control training for center staff. The action was part of the field mission training project for both organizations.
IOM stores in its centers basic items such as plastic sheeting, blankets, buckets, cooking utensils, mosquito nets, bladder tanks, and onion tanks. Others include latrine, canned slabs, ropes, non-food bags, sleeping mattresses, multipurpose tents, and massage rooms.
“Mainstreaming quality is one pathway of fulfilling our accountability to our beneficiaries as we address their needs, ensuring their safety and well-being, and that our partners and donors will know that we are putting great emphasis on these,” the director added.
Victims of human trafficking with support in Niger
For Central and West Africa, IOM has opened the Reception Centre for Victims of Trafficking, being the first in a Francophone country on the continent. The initiative was launched to respond to the growing need for personalized assistance for vulnerable cases as part of the project to strengthen the ability to combat trafficking in persons in Niger.
“Once in the country of transit or destination, these migrants often end up victims of forced labour and/or sexual exploitation. Migrants using irregular channels are more vulnerable to abuse during their journey and become easy prey for traffickers,” said Eva Pons, IOM’s Protection Officer in Niger.
In the centers, potential victims can be identified and assisted with medical and psychosocial support, as well as with socioeconomic, administrative and legal assistance.
“On this occasion, IOM renews its commitment to support the Government of Niger in fighting human trafficking and protecting its victims,” completed Barbara Rijks, Head of IOM Mission in Niger