By Nakasia Logan
In a significant move to support justice for survivors of sexual assault in Guyana, the Justice Education Society of Canada has partnered with the Ministry of Health to donate 300 Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits.
These kits are vital for collecting DNA evidence from victims of sexual assault, ensuring that the evidence gathered is admissible in court.
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, emphasized the importance of these kits in delivering justice to survivors.
He stressed the need for adequately trained medical professionals to handle the evidence in a manner acceptable to the legal system, preventing cases from being dismissed due to lack of evidence.
The project, running for a period of four years with funding of GY$ 3.7 million, aims to provide comprehensive support.
This includes working with the Guyana Police Force to enhance investigative skills, offering training expertise, and supplying the necessary kits.
These resources will be particularly targeted at hard-to-reach communities, including those in Regions 1.
As part of the initiative, the Justice Education Society will also conduct training sessions for healthcare providers, in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force.
This collaborative effort between the Justice Education Society and the Ministry of Health underscores a commitment to combating gender-based violence and ensuring justice for survivors of sexual assault in Guyana.