BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — A three-day safeguarding workshop led by the Commission has brought renewed focus to the protection of religious women, addressing the reality of abuse and reinforcing prevention efforts within a local congregation. 

Held from 6 to 8 March in Bloemfontein, the workshop was facilitated by Br. Fortune Chakasara, Regional Safeguarding Expert for Africa, for members of the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen. Organised under the theme “I Am My Sister’s Keeper: Safeguarding Conversations,” the initiative sought to confront sensitive issues surrounding abuse in religious contexts, including the sexual abuse of nuns. 

The workshop aimed to equip participants with practical tools to prevent abuse, improve awareness of safeguarding principles, and strengthen their ability to identify and report cases early. Sessions also focused on how to respond to and manage allegations, while encouraging a shared sense of responsibility for the protection of all members within the congregation. 

A key element of the programme addressed personal development, particularly the role of self-esteem in safeguarding. Facilitators emphasised that strengthening individual confidence and a sense of dignity can play a critical role in enabling religious women to resist abuse, report misconduct, and engage actively in safeguarding processes. 

Twenty sisters took part in the workshop, including members of the congregation’s leadership, formators, and those responsible for ongoing formation. Their participation is expected to support the integration of safeguarding practices across different levels of community life and governance. 

The initiative reflects priorities outlined in the Fourth Annual Report of the Commission, particularly its focus on truth and institutional reform, and the need for preventative measures that address the root causes of abuse. 

Participants described the workshop as empowering, noting increased awareness of safeguarding responsibilities and greater confidence in addressing and reporting abuse. The presence of leadership figures is expected to help ensure that the knowledge and practices introduced during the workshop are sustained and shared more widely within the congregation. 

The workshop marks a further step in strengthening safeguarding efforts in the region, contributing to broader work aimed at fostering accountability, preventing abuse, and supporting survivors within the Church.