TRAUMA-SENSITIVE APPROACH
A step towards collective healing
In October 2024, three workshops on the trauma-sensitive approach were held in Dschang, Douala and Yaoundé. These sessions took place respectively on October 8 and 9 in Dschang, October 15 and 16 in Douala, and October 29 and 30 in Yaoundé. Organized by GIZ Yaoundé Regional Office & Ziviler Friedensdienst / GIZ Each of these meetings brought together motivated participants, all keen to contribute to positive transformation within their communities.
For an intense and inspiring workshop on the trauma-sensitive approach, this meeting, preceded by a June session on the trauma-focused approach, marked a crucial milestone for all participants, all committed to making a difference in their communities.
From day one, the facilitators shed light on powerful concepts: what is trauma? What are its causes and manifestations? How can we understand it and respond with compassion? They also introduced the“Do No Harm” approach, an essential philosophy of non-violence to guide us in our commitment to peace and healing.
Participants immersed themselves in group work on concrete projects, exploring how to integrate this sensitivity into actions in the field. Role-playing illustrated situations of stress and trauma that everyone sometimes experiences on a daily basis, reminding us that resilience often comes from joining forces and listening to others.
The emotionally-charged second day began with each participant introspecting on his or her own “river of life” – an intimate journey into their personal journey. A poignant presentation on intergenerational trauma in Rwanda reminded us how yesterday’s wounds can still influence our lives today.
The workshop ended with a collective reflection, highlighting best practices in stress and trauma management, valuable tools for dealing with the challenges facing our communities.
Through this workshop, we sowed seeds of compassion and resilience. Together, we can move towards a future where trauma is not a wall, but a bridge to a more united and stronger society.
