2024 trainings

1. Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 13^th to 17^th May 2024, Nairobi, Kenya & on Zoom

This course is relevant to all those practitioners working in the continent of Africa and are keen to deepen their understanding of peacebuilding & conflict transformation, all those practitioners working in conflict and post conflict areas in Africa and would like to integrate peacebuilding and conflict transformation into their work, and all those who have an interest to learn more about conflict sensitive programming.

The training methodology will be participatory, making use of adult learning models including analysis and reflection from participants’ and facilitators knowledge. In addition, participants will engage in individual and group tasks, concept presentation, mini-lectures and case studies analysis that will help them put theory and concepts into practice.

The Course Content

Understanding Conflict

This section is designed to help the participants gain a deeper understanding of key concepts relevant to Peacebuilding and conflict transformation, key tools of conflict analysis and exploration of various conflict; Different analytical models will be applied to:

Define key concepts relevant to peacebuilding and conflict transformation
Explore the concept of peacebuilding and conflict transformation
Analyze conflicts in various contexts

Peacebuilding theories and practice

This section will explore further the concept of peacebuilding including the theories that inform programming. During the session, participants will be given the opportunity to:

Identify context specific peacebuilding interventions
Work in teams to practice new theories and concepts
Apply these ideas and skills to cases that relate to their experiences and contexts

Conflict Sensitivity in Programming

This section will look at the strategies and methods that help peacebuilding and multi-mandated interveners to examine and take into account the unintended impacts of their interventions on the context of conflict and crisis. The participants will explore:

Understanding conflict sensitivity
Application of conflict sensitivity in peacebuilding programs
Conflict sensitive approaches

Skills for conflict transformation and peacebuilding

In this section participants will discuss the essential skills and knowledge needed for conflict transformation in interpersonal and group settings. Some of the skills will include:

Negotiation and mediation
Trauma healing, Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Exploration of indigenous mechanisms in peacebuilding

This section will focus on the practices of indigenous mechanism in peacebuilding and discern its role in contemporary peacebuilding practice. Discussions will be on:

Community mechanisms and peace processes
Indigenous dispute resolution mechanisms
Influence of indigenous mechanisms on external conflict interventions

Expected Training Results

A clear understanding of peace, violence, conflict, peacebuilding & conflict transformation
Increased understanding of different conflict analysis tools
A better understanding of peacebuilding theories
An improved awareness of ‘Conflict Sensitive Programming’
Improved knowledge and skills of different conflict management strategies
Appreciation of indigenous conflict resolution strategies

How to Apply

For more information about the course, download the training prospectus and application form here:

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/COPAs-2024-May-PBCT-Course-prospectus.pdf

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/COPAs-2024-May-PBCT-Course-application-form.docx

Send your filled in application form to any of the following emails for processing: copafricatrainings@gmail.com/copa@copafrica.org/trainings@copafrica.org

Venue 1: Nairobi (details to be communicated nearer to the training dates)

Venue 2: Zoom

Course Fee

Option 1: US$1300 (Covers full board accommodation, tuition, resource materials and certificate of participation)

Option 2: $800 (for day scholars & covers day time meals at the training centre, tuition, resource materials and certificate of participation)

Option 3 charges: US $450: This amount is for those who will opt to join the training via Zoom and the amount covers tuition and a certificate of participation

Payment methods

All payments can be done by either cheque (for those based in Kenya) payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa or by direct bank transfers-for those outside of Kenya (please ask for banking details). Kindly note all payments need to be made before the commencement of the training.

2023 Trainings

1.Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 11th to 15th December 2023, Nairobi-Kenya & Online

This training is ideal for;

Practitioners who are interested in deepening their understanding of gender and violence prevention in post-conflict transitions,
Practitioners interested in getting a deeper analysis of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW) and how it promotes gender equity and women human rights;
Practitioners who would like to explore Human Security as a tool that can contribute to the achievement of gender equity and promotion of sustainable peace
Practitioners who are keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) and its relevance to issues of Women, Peace and Security in conflict and post conflict settings.
Practitioners with responsibilities of integrating gender mainstreaming in their programming

The Course Content

Understanding violence against women: Violence is one way of dealing with conflicts (Galtung (1990, 1996) and is represented in three separate types distinguished as physical, structural or cultural. Among the issues to be looked at in the training will be the escalation of violence against women in situations of violent conflicts and tragic development in which women are targeted in all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Linking Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Human Security and Peacebuilding: Current international standards addressing GBV in conflict and post conflict areas draw upon a wide array of provisions contained in a variety of human rights instruments that safeguard women and girls. The course will help participants identify relevant provisions in selected CEDAW articles which they can advance towards the prevention of sexual violence against women in situations of conflict.
Gendering Conflict transformation around UNSCRs: In reference to grassroots based cases studies benefiting indirectly and directly from the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008), the participants will look at what these resolutions are, their various provisions, relation to women in conflict areas, and how to incorporate them in ongoing peacebuilding and reconstruction work within the participants contexts.
Human security paradigm and its relevance to women violence prevention: Human security paradigm perceives the ordinary citizen including women as a purpose and not as a means to security. The training will identify and emphasize the considerations for human security as integrated approach to achieving gender equality, sustainable conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
Gender Mainstreaming in peacebuilding: Women continue to be underrepresented in peacebuilding processes, be it in conflict prevention, management or post conflict reconstruction, yet research shows that where women engage in the above, violence often declines and it becomes easier to build more sustainable peace. The session will explore the various strategies that programmes/organizations can put in place to ensure effective participation and contribution of women in the processes.

How to Apply

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-December-GHSPBCT-Training Prospectus

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-December-GHSPBCT-Application-form.docx

Send in your filled application forms to Coalition For Peace in Africa (COPA) through any of the following emails:

copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Training Charges

Option 1: US$ 450 (covers online tuition, online resource materials and an e-certificate of participation)

Option 2: US$800 (covers tuition, resource materials, conference package and a certificate of participation)

Option 3: $1300 (covers tuition, Certificate of participation and full board accommodation at Convent International Hotel from the evening of 10^th December to breakfast on 16^th December)

Airport pickup and drop off in Nairobi is offered at no charge for option 2 and 3

Payment Process

Kindly note all payments should be made before the commencement of the training and can be done by either cheque payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa (only for Kenyan organizations) or by direct bank transfers (for international participants) (please ask for banking details).

Some Organizations that supported participants to this course in 2019, 2021, 2022 & 2023

Saferworld-South Sudan & Somalia
United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
SOS Sahel –Sudan
PAX-South Sudan
UNDP Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan & Mali
Presidential Amnesty office in Nigeria
Oxfam South Sudan
Congo Peace network-DRC
International Development Research Centre- Kenya
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
GIZ Ethiopia, Kenya & Rwanda
Ejo Youth-Rwanda
Justice & Peace Commission- Catholic Diocese of Torit-South Sudan
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) -Uganda
UN Women-Ethiopia
Ministry of Internal Security Federal Government of Somalia
University of Khartoum-Development Studies & Research Institute (DSRI) –Sudan
United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO)-Gender Affairs Section
Centre For Violence & Reconciliation-South Africa
Mercycorps-Netherlands
Episcopal Church of South Sudan Anglican Communion

Some Participants’ Comments

I have a different perspective of security; achieving high levels of human security is the key to conflict transformation
The trainers were knowledgeable and experienced
I appreciate the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned.
I will now conduct a proper gender and conflict analysis from a human security perspective
The most important learning for me was CEDAW and its linkages to cultural, social, economic and political rights.
I enjoyed the diversity of the group and the participants from many different countries. It enriched my learning and kept me very attentive through- out the week

2. Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Training: 23rd to 27th October 2023, Nairobi-Kenya & on Zoom

This course is relevant to all those practitioners working towards building and stabilization of peace within the different regions in the continent of Africa. The training methodology will be participatory, making use of adult learning models including inquiry, analysis and reflection from participants’ and facilitators knowledge. In addition, participants will engage in individual and group tasks, concept presentation, mini-lectures and case studies analysis that will help them put theory and concepts into practice.

The Course Content

Understanding Conflict

This section is designed to help the participants gain a deeper understanding of the factors that cause conflict and violence with the aim of being able to identify appropriate strategies for intervening in different conflict situations. The different analytical models that will be applied include:

Exploring the nature and dynamics of conflict
Understanding violence
Analysing conflicts

Peacebuilding theories and practice

This section will give an overview of peacebuilding theories, concepts and practice. During the sessions, participants will be given the opportunity to:

Identify context specific peacebuilding interventions
Work in teams to practice new theories and concepts
Apply these ideas and skills to cases that relate to their experiences and contexts

Conflict Sensitivity in Peacebuilding

Understanding conflict sensitivity
Application of conflict sensitivity in peacebuilding programs
Conflict sensitive approaches

Skills for conflict transformation and peacebuilding

In this section participants will discuss the essential skills and knowledge needed for conflict transformation in interpersonal and group settings. Some of the skills will include:

Negotiation and mediation
Working with stories to create change
Forgiveness and reconciliation

Exploration of indigenous mechanisms in peacebuilding

This section will focus on the practices of indigenous mechanism in peacebuilding and discern its role in contemporary peacebuilding practice. Discussions will be on:

Community mechanisms and peace processes
Indigenous dispute resolution mechanisms
Influence of indigenous mechanisms on external conflict interventions

Course Fee

Option 1: US$1300 (Covers full board accommodation, tuition, resource materials and certificate of participation)

Option 2: $800 (for day scholars & covers day time meals at the training centre, tuition, resource materials and certificate of participation)

Option 3 charges: US $450: This amount is for those who will opt to join the training via Zoom and the amount covers tuition and a certificate of participation

Airport pickup and drop off will be offered to all the participants

For more information, download the training documents in the links below;

Training Prospectus

Training application form

Send your filled in application form to any of the following emails for processing: copafricatrainings@gmail.com/copa@copafrica.org/trainings@copafrica.org

2.Training of Trainers in Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 21st to 25th August 2023, Nairobi & on Zoom

This training is ideal for practitioners who are engaged in the designing, facilitating and evaluation of training programmes/projects. The training is divided into two main parts with Part One focusing on building participants competencies in Understanding Conflict, Violence, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation. Part Two is wholly dedicated to the enhancement of participants’ competencies as trainers.

The training objectives

To Deepen participants Understanding of Conflict, Violence, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation
To Enhance participants skills in designing, facilitating and evaluating trainings (including online)

The training content

Setting the Scene- Understanding Conflict, Violence and Peace
Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
Fundamentals in Adult learning
Conducting training needs assessments for individuals and organizations
Exploring the roles of a facilitator/training in dynamic contexts
Designing a training curriculum (including online trainings)
Facilitation skills and techniques (including online trainings)
Evaluating a training programme

Some comments from past participants on their key learning from the course;

1) I learnt that we should evaluate our training programme against ‘SO WHAT QUESTIONS’

2) I learnt that our trainings should be clear on the change we want to see in the long term not just the short term

3) I learnt that we are just facilitators of change, the real experts are the people involved in the situation/conflict. Sometimes they might just lack the tools or can’t see the situation with a different lens. Our task as the trainers is to facilitate this change in different ways.

For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the training application form here

2. Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course: 12th to 16th June 2023, Nairobi & Online on Zoom

This training is ideal for;

Practitioners who are interested in deepening their understanding of gender and violence prevention in post-conflict transitions,
Practitioners interested in getting a deeper analysis of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW) and how it promotes gender equity and women human rights;
Practitioners who would like to explore Human Security as a tool that can contribute to the achievement of gender equity and promotion of sustainable peace
Practitioners who are keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) and hits relevance to issues of Women, Peace and Security in conflict and post conflict settings.
Practitioners with responsibilities of integrating gender mainstreaming in their programming

The Course Content

Understanding violence against women: Violence is one way of dealing with conflicts (Galtung (1990, 1996) and is represented in three separate types distinguished as physical, structural or cultural. Among the issues to be looked at in the training will be the escalation of violence against women in situations of violent conflicts and tragic development in which women are targeted in all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Linking Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Human Security and Peacebuilding: Current international standards addressing GBV in conflict and post conflict areas draw upon a wide array of provisions contained in a variety of human rights instruments that safeguard women and girls. The course will help participants identify relevant provisions in selected CEDAW articles which they can advance towards the prevention of sexual violence against women in situations of conflict.
Gendering Conflict transformation around UNSCRs: In reference to grassroots based cases studies benefiting indirectly and directly from the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008), the participants will look at what these resolutions are, their various provisions, relation to women in conflict areas, and how to incorporate them in ongoing peacebuilding and reconstruction work within the participants contexts.
Human security paradigm and its relevance to women violence prevention: Human security paradigm perceives the ordinary citizen including women as a purpose and not as a means to security. The training will identify and emphasize the considerations for human security as integrated approach to achieving gender equality, sustainable conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
Gender Mainstreaming in peacebuilding: Women continue to be underrepresented in peacebuilding processes, be it in conflict prevention, management or post conflict reconstruction, yet research shows that where women engage in the above, violence often declines and it becomes easier to build more sustainable peace. The session will explore the various strategies that programmes/organizations can put in place to ensure effective participation and contribution of women in the processes.

How to Apply

Send in your filled application forms to Coalition For Peace in Africa (COPA) through any of the following emails:

copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Application Documents links

For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the training application form here

Training Charges

Option 1: US$ 450 (covers online tuition, online resource materials and an e-certificate of participation)

Option 2: US$800 (covers tuition, resource materials, conference package and a certificate of participation)

Option 3: $1300 (covers full board accommodation at Convent International Hotel, Tuition & Certificate of participation)

Airport pickup and drop off in Nairobi is offered at no charge for option 2 and 3

Payment Process

Selected organizations that supported participants to the course in 2019, 2021 & 2022

Saferworld-South Sudan & Somalia
United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
SOS Sahel –Sudan
PAX-South Sudan
UNDP Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan & Mali
Presidential Amnesty office in Nigeria
Oxfam South Sudan
Congo Peace network-DRC
International Development Research Centre- Kenya
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
GIZ Ethiopia, Kenya & Rwanda
Ejo Youth-Rwanda
Justice & Peace Commission- Catholic Diocese of Torit-South Sudan
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) -Uganda
UN Women-Ethiopia
Ministry of Internal Security Federal Government of Somalia
University of Khartoum-Development Studies & Research Institute (DSRI) -Sudan

Selected Participants’ Comments

1. I have a different perspective of security; achieving high levels of human security is the key to conflict transformation
2. The trainers were knowledgeable and experienced
3. I appreciate the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned.
4. I will now conduct a proper gender and conflict analysis from a human security perspective
5. The most important learning for me was CEDAW and its linkages to cultural, social, economic and political rights.
6. I enjoyed the diversity of the group and the participants from many different countries. It enriched my learning and kept me very attentive through- out the week

2. Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course: 13th to 17th March 2023, Nairobi & Online on Zoom

This 5 day professional training on peacebuilding & conflict transformation will be held in person in Nairobi, Kenya and online on Zoom. The course has been designed to benefit peace actors interested in deepening their understanding of peacebuilding and conflict transformation and all those planning to work or are already working in post conflicts settings and/or wanting to include conflict sensitivity in programming

The course aims to provide participants with a clear understanding of the dynamics of conflict, violence and peace and to enable them to acquire a range of practical skills related to handling post violent conflict situations. Participants to the course are expected from within the UN system, the NGOs sector, civil society, government agencies and other institutions supporting or learning peace issues.

Background Information

Conflict and the post-conflict reconstruction of communities is a process. That means conflict is not a linear phenomenon with a clear beginning and end but more a combination of contingent factors and relations. Conflicts have periods and regions of stability and peace mixed with violence and instability and boundaries and patterns between those situations change. The capacity for peace-building is dependent on understanding and affecting the root causes of the conflict.

This module combines basic concepts in peacebuilding with practical opportunities to apply the concepts. The basic concepts include identifying the link between peacebuilding and development, when and where peacebuilding occurs, various roles of peacebuilders, the relationship-centered nature of peacebuilding, some basic operating principles, an integrated framework for identifying peacebuilding activities, and a visioning component.

The 5 day curriculum will combine class work and “open spaces” for creativity and joint action in peacebuilding theory and conflict transformation to be drawn from a variety of sources and traditions, to complement and build on indigenous African knowledge systems. Learning will be based on participatory adult learning models including inquiry, analysis and reflection from participants’ knowledge. Participants will engage in individual and group tasks, concept presentation, mini-lectures, case study analysis and videos

The Course Content

The following content areas will be covered:

Understanding Conflict

This section is designed to help the participants gain a deeper understanding of the factors that cause conflict and violence with the aim of being able to identify appropriate strategies for intervening in conflict. Different analytical models will be applied to:

Explore the nature and dynamics of conflict
Explore the nature of violence and peace
Explore the concept of conflict transformation and peacebuilding
Analyze conflicts in various contexts

Peacebuilding theories and practice

This section will give an overview of peacebuilding theories, concepts and practice. During the sessions, participants will be given the opportunity to:

Identify context specific peacebuilding interventions
Work in teams to practice new theories and concepts
Apply these ideas and skills to cases that relate to their experiences and contexts

Conflict Sensitivity in Peacebuilding

This section looks at the strategies and methods that help peacebuilding and multi-mandated interveners to examine and take into account the unintended impacts of their interventions on the context of conflict and crisis. The participants will explore:

Understanding conflict sensitivity
Application of conflict sensitivity in peacebuilding programs
Conflict sensitive approaches

Skills for conflict transformation and peacebuilding

In this section participants will discuss the essential skills and knowledge needed for conflict transformation in interpersonal and group settings. Some of the skills will include:

Negotiation and mediation
Working with stories to create change
Forgiveness and reconciliation

Exploration of indigenous mechanisms in peacebuilding

This section will focus on the practices of indigenous mechanism in peacebuilding and discern its role in contemporary peacebuilding practice. Discussions will be on:

Community mechanisms and peace processes
Indigenous dispute resolution mechanisms
Influence of indigenous mechanisms on external conflict interventions

Expected Training results

A clear understanding of peace, violence, conflict transformation and peacebuilding and their inter-relations
Increased understanding of different conflict analysis tools
A better understanding of peacebuilding theories and how they inform practice
An increased awareness of the ‘Do No Harm Approach’ and how the operating context interacts with proposed interventions
Improved knowledge and skills of different conflict management strategies including negotiation and mediation
Appreciation of indigenous conflict resolution strategies

Facilitators

These will be individuals with varied theoritical and practical knowledge of peacebuilding matters having worked in the African context and beyond on conflict transformation trainings and programmes that are aimed at building sustainable peace.

Application process

For more information, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the training application form here

Filled in application forms should be sent to COPA by email. All received applications will be acknowledged and the necessary documents will be sent to the participant. Please send your completed application to

trainings@copafrica.org/copa@copafrica.org/copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Payment Process

Kindly note all payments should be made before the commencement of the training and can be done by either cheque payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa (for organizations based in Kenya) or by direct bank transfers (please ask for banking details).

2022 Training Calendar

The following is the schedule of trainings that Coalition for Peace in Africa (COPA) will conduct in 2022 for practitioners working in volatile and complex contexts in Africa and beyond. Most of the trainings will have both the in person and Zoom for those who may opt to attend online.

Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course: 28th March to 1st April/27th June to 1st July 2022
Training on Healing the Healers: Towards Sustainable Community Based Peacebuilding & Development Work; 9th to 13th May 2022
Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 31st October to 4th November 2022
Training of Trainers in Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 19th to 23rd September 2022
Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting & Learning in Peacebuilding Practice; 5th to 9th December 2022

For detailed information about each course, download the 2022 training calendar here

2022 4th Quarter Training

Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting & Learning in Peacebuilding Practice: 5th to 9th December 2022,Nairobi & on Zoom

Background
Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Learning (MERL) is an integral part of every intervention. Knowledge of MERL makes it easy to formulate and articulate a project’s theory of change and to draw organizational learning from it. It also makes it easier to draw evidence of achieved results, draw lessons from what is working and recommend appropriate measures for what is not working.

Course Objectives
1. Introduce participants to MERL from a peacebuilding perspective
2. Enhance participants understanding of the various contextual tools of analysis applied in MERL in the peacebuilding practice
3. Build participants understanding of a project’s Theory of Change
4. Enhance participants’ skills in developing an evaluation and a learning agenda for their Peacebuilding projects

The Course Content

Introduction to monitoring and evaluation for conflict prevention and peacebuilding: In this session, participants will be introduced to MERL from the peacebuilding practice including an understanding of the different criteria that is used to assess the effectiveness of a peacebuilding project. Contextual analysis tools: This session will introduce participants to the different contextual analysis tools used in MERL.

3. Developing effective monitoring tools for conflict prevention and peacebuilding: In this section, participants will be taken through the process of developing an MERL plan for their specific projects. The session will focus on creating a common understanding of what an MERL plan is, what it is used for, who is involved in its designing, the most appropriate time for its designing and who it is used on4. Developing a Theory of Change: the session will focus on understanding what a Theory of change is, how it is developed, its relationship to the project cycle and who really should be involved in its designing. This session will enable participants broaden their knowledge of the project cycle and the logical linkages from one stage to the other. The session will examine how proposed project activities lead to the desired social change. At the end of the session, participants should be able to identify and expound on the various theories of change that inform their projects.
Evaluation and developing a learning agenda: The session will take participants through the concept of evaluation and its importance and applicability in projects, the different types of evaluation and audiences will also be discussed including how to develop an evaluation schedule for a project. At the end of the session, participants should be able to develop an evaluation schedule for their projects and to identify some learning agenda questions for their projects.

Payment:

Option 1 Charges: US$1300: The amount covers tuition, full board accommodation @ Convent International Hotel from 4^th December to breakfast on 10^th December and a certificate of participation.

Option 2 Charges: US $800: The amount covers tuition, conference charges and certificate of participation.

Option 3 charges: US $450: This amount is for those who will opt to join the training via Zoom and the amount covers tuition and a certificate of participation

COPA offers airport pickup and drop off at no charges

Payment methods
All payments should be done by either cheque (for those based in Kenya) payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa or by direct bank transfers-for those outside of Kenya (please ask for banking details).

Training centre
The training will be held at the Convent International Hotel located in Nairobi’s Convent Drive, off James Gichuru Road in Lavington. It is about 15 Kms from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The training will also be on Zoom for those who would want to participate online.

The training documents can be downloaded from:

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2022-MERL-Course-prospectus.pdf

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/MERL-December-2022-Application-form.docx

Send in your filled application form to either of the following emails: trainings@copafrica.org/copa@copafrica.org/copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 31st October to 4th November 2022, in person in Nairobi, Kenya and online on Zoom

The training will be held from 31st October to 4th November 2022 both in person in Nairobi and online via Zoom.

This training is ideal for;

Practitioners who are interested in deepening their understanding of gender and violence prevention in post-conflict transitions,
Practitioners interested in getting a deeper analysis of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW) and how it promotes gender equity and women human rights;
Practitioners who would like to explore Human Security as a tool that can contribute to the achievement of gender equity and promotion of sustainable peace
Practitioners who are keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) and hits relevance to issues of Women, Peace and Security in conflict and post conflict settings.
Practitioners with responsibilities of integrating gender mainstreaming in their programming

The Course Content

Understanding violence against women: Violence is one way of dealing with conflicts (Galtung (1990, 1996) and is represented in three separate types distinguished as physical, structural or cultural. Among the issues to be looked at in the training will be the escalation of violence against women in situations of violent conflicts and tragic development in which women are targeted in all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Linking Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Human Security and Peacebuilding: Current international standards addressing GBV in conflict and post conflict areas draw upon a wide array of provisions contained in a variety of human rights instruments that safeguard women and girls. The course will help participants identify relevant provisions in selected CEDAW articles which they can advance towards the prevention of sexual violence against women in situations of conflict.
Gendering Conflict transformation around UNSCRs: In reference to grassroots based cases studies benefiting indirectly and directly from the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008), the participants will look at what these resolutions are, their various provisions, relation to women in conflict areas, and how to incorporate them in ongoing peacebuilding and reconstruction work within the participants contexts.
Human security paradigm and its relevance to women violence prevention: Human security paradigm perceives the ordinary citizen including women as a purpose and not as a means to security. The training will identify and emphasize the considerations for human security as integrated approach to achieving gender equality, sustainable conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
Gender Mainstreaming in peacebuilding: Women continue to be underrepresented in peacebuilding processes, be it in conflict prevention, management or post conflict reconstruction, yet research shows that where women engage in the above, violence often declines and it becomes easier to build more sustainable peace. The session will explore the various strategies that programmes/organizations can put in place to ensure effective participation and contribution of women in the processes.

How to Apply

Filled in application forms should be sent to COPA by email. All received applications will be acknowledged and if successful a corresponding letter of admission and other necessary documentations will be sent to the applicant. Please send your completed application to any of the following emails:

copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Application Documents links

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2022-Oct-GHSPBCT-Course-application-form.docx

https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/2022-Oct-GHSPBCT-Course-prospectus.pdf

Training Charges

Option 1: US$ 450 (covers online tuition, online resource materials and an e-certificate of participation)

Option 2: US$800 (covers tuition, resource materials, conference package and a certificate of participation)

Option 3: $1300 (covers full board accommodation at Convent International Hotel, Tuition & Certificate of participation)

Airport pickup and drop off in Nairobi is offered at no charge for option 2 and 3

Payment Process

Selected organizations that supported participants to the course in 2019, 2021 & 2022

Saferworld-South Sudan& Somalia
United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
SOS Sahel –Sudan
PAX-South Sudan
UNDP Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan & Mali
Presidential Amnesty office in Nigeria
Oxfam South Sudan
Congo Peace network-DRC
International Development Research Centre- Kenya
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
GIZ Kenya, Ethiopia & Rwanda
Ejo Youth-Rwanda
Justice & Peace Commission- Catholic Diocese of Torit-South Sudan
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) -Uganda
UN Women-Ethiopia
Ministry of Internal Security Federal Government of Somalia
University of Khartoum-Development Studies & Research Institute (DSRI) -Sudan

Selected Participants’ Comments

The discussions were brilliant and I learnt a lot from them
I have a different perspective of security; achieving high levels of human security is the key to conflict transformation
The trainers were knowledgeable and experienced
I appreciate the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned.
I will now conduct a proper gender and conflict analysis from a human security perspective
The most important learning for me was CEDAW and its linkages to cultural, social, economic and political rights.
I enjoyed the diversity of the group and the participants from many different countries. It enriched my learning and kept me very attentive through- out the week

2022 -3rd Quarter Training

Training of Trainers in Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course, 19th to 23rd September 2022, Nairobi (also online on Zoom)

This training will take place in the period 19^th to 23^rd September 2022. The training is open to those who would want to attend in person in Nairobi and those who would want to attend online via Zoom.

This training is ideal for practitioners who are engaged in the designing, facilitating and evaluation of training programmes/projects. The training is divided into two main parts with Part One focusing on building participants competencies in Understanding Conflict and Conflict Management. Part Two is wholly dedicated to the enhancement of participants’ competencies as trainers.

The training objectives

To Deepen participants Understanding of Conflict& Conflict Management
To Enhance participants skills in designing, facilitating and evaluating trainings (including online)

The training content

Setting the Scene- Understanding Conflict
Conflict Management Skills
Fundamentals in Adult learning
Conducting training needs assessments for individuals and organizations
Exploring the roles of a facilitator/training in dynamic contexts
Designing a training curriculum (including online trainings)
Facilitation skills and techniques (including online trainings)
Evaluating a training programme

Learning Methodologies

The training will be both online and face to face. As far as possible, the methodologies will make use of the full range of participatory adult learning models including individual tasks, group tasks, case studies and simulations amongst others. Participants will be required to fully contribute from their knowledge and reflections in peace, development, human rights, gender rights and humanitarian work, amongst other fields.

Some comments from past participants on their key learning from the course;

I learnt that we should evaluate our training programme against ‘SO WHAT QUESTIONS’
I learnt that our trainings should be clear on the change we want to see in the long term not just the short term
I learnt that we are just facilitators of change, the real experts are the people involved in the situation/conflict. Sometimes they might just lack the tools or can’t see the situation with a different lens. Our task as the trainers is to facilitate this change in different ways.

How to apply for the training

The training application form can be downloaded from this link:https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Application-form.docx

The training prospectus can be downloaded from this link:https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/TfT-Sept-2022-Training-prospectus.pdf

Send in your filled application form to either of the following emails: trainings@copafrica.org/copa@copafrica.org/copafricatrainings@gmail.com

Selected Partners in past Trainings

United Nations Mission in South Sudan
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central Africa Republic-MINUSCA
GIZ Civil Peace Service-Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Central Africa Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo and Ethiopia
Envision Zimbabwe Women Trust
Haki Yetu Organization-Kenya
UNDP-South Sudan, Tanzania, Sudan and Mali
ZOA International-Sudan, South Sudan and Liberia
Social-Life & Agricultural Development Organization-Somalia
Catholic Diocese of Torit-South Sudan
Centre National d’Appui au Développement et à la Participation Populaire” (CENADEP)DRC
Finn Church Aid-Somalia and South Sudan
Cordaid-South Sudan
University of Khartoum
UN Women-Ethiopia, Sudan and Tanzania
Equal Opportunities Commission-Uganda
War Child Canada-Uganda
Saferworld-Somalia
Ejo Youth-Rwanda
SOS Sahel-Sudan & Somalia
Interpeace-Somalia & Great Lakes Programmes
Ministry of Youths and Sports-Liberia
UNFPA Burundi
Kituo Cha Sheria-Kenya
Rural Women Peace Link-Kenya
Awareness Against Human Trafficking-Kenya
Refugee Consortium-Kenya
Vision Jeunesse Nouvelle-Rwanda
American Friends Service Committee-Somalia Programme

Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 27th June to 1st July 2022 -Nairobi, Kenya (also available online via Zoom)

This training targets those practitioners working in the fields of Peacebuilding, Peace Keeping Operations, Humanitarian Relief, Human Rights and Post War Recovery in Africa.

It is also ideal for practitioners with basic trainings in peacebuilding and conflict transformation, those whose organizations have recently integrated peacebuilding in their on-going programmes; and those keen to implement their work in ways that are conflict sensitive.

The training case studies and discussions will be drawn from different conflict and peacebuilding contexts in Africa. It will be facilitated by seasoned practitioners with years of practical experiences drawn from different conflict contexts in Africa and high levels of academic qualifications in peacebuilding and conflict transformation.

As far as possible, the course will make use of the full range of participatory adult learning models including inquiry, analysis and reflection from participants’ experiences. Participants will engage in individual and group tasks, and case studies analysis. Everything will be focused on finding practical pathways and responses to real problems through an inspiring and hopeful process.

Language of facilitation

English

Training Objectives

1) Enhance participants understanding of Conflict, Violence and Peace

2) Increase participants’ knowledge of conflict analysis tools

3) Enhance participants’ awareness of theories of conflict and peacebuilding and how these inform their programming

4) Enhance participants’ knowledge of conflict management strategies

5) Increase participants’ knowledge of peacebuilding strategies

6) Enhance participants’ knowledge of conflict sensitive programming

For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the training application form here

2022- 2nd Quarter Training

Training on Healing the Healer: Towards Sustainable Community Based Peacebuilding & Development Work, 9th to 13th May 2022, Nairobi-Kenya
This training is ideal for practitioners working in complex and fragile contexts in Africa, first responders including journalists, mental health practitioners, human rights defenders and the police and all those whose work is impacted by trauma.
The course is inspired by the believe that there’s crucial need for efforts towards breaking cycles of violence. Recent studies show that trauma amongst peacebuilders themselves considerably compromises efforts for reconciling and rebuilding societies after violent conflict (Davis, 2019).This finding is consistent with not only peacebuilders but first responders in general including; Journalists, mental health practitioners, human rights defenders and the police. Building long term sustainable peace therefore, must be sensitive to the presence of trauma in the communities in conflict as well as the trauma experienced by the very agents of peace.
Studies from various countries have shown that people exposed to traumatic experiences run a greater risk of poor life outcomes, including compromised physical health, risky behaviors like dropping out of school or substance abuse, poor economic self-sufficiency or poor parenting skills for the next generation (Lambourne, 2013). In short, individual and collective trauma is a driver of current violent conflicts including the structural violence that exist in organizations that ought to be transforming the conflict.
The course will explore how trauma undermines peace building and development work while collectively identifying the tools and skills that are culturally sensitive to commence the individual and collective healing journey within their communities.
The course will specifically focus on seeking answers to the following questions:
(a) How do we address the individual, collective and historical trauma in conflict zones?
(b) How does healing and unhealed trauma intersect with concepts of truth, justice, peace and forgiveness?
(c) How do we handle burnout in our lines of work, as first responders and agents of peace?
(d) In what ways can governments complement and support community-based healing processes?
(e) What practical ways are practitioners addressing their acquired trauma and unhealed trauma, to ensure sustainable peace in the conflict transformation process?
This course will explore, in a holistic way, the healing process of the agents of peace as well as post-conflict healing of communities. Beyond the healing of the affected, the participants will acquire tools and skills for practicing psychosocial wellbeing within their everyday work and communities they engage in.
Methodology
This training will be conducted in-person over a period of 5- days , totaling to 30 hours of contact. With a maximum of 12 participants, the training will make use of a wide range of participatory adult learning models including inquiry, case study analysis, individual and group tasks and reflections from participants’ experiences. All learning will be focused on finding practical pathways towards healing in one’s individual context.
The small number of learners will create space for each participant to (re)discover the power of their vulnerability as a pathway of rediscovering their inner healer so as to be more effective as community healer and peacebuilder.
Topics Overview
1) Day One: Leveling the ground
Objectives
Participants to share their organizational experience and level of engagement in the community.
Participants to identify the gaps in their interventions in the community.
2) Day Two: Approach to Conflict
Objectives
Participants to define their approaches to conflict as an individual as well as their organizations’
Participants to define burnout in their contexts, and develop an organizational intervention to address this.
3) Day Three: Needs and Interests, Understanding Cycles of Violence
Objective: The participants to discuss the needs of the victims in a given conflict, the interests of the perpetrators and finally explore practical ways to break free.
4) Day Four: Healing alongside development and peacebuilding
Objective: The participants to define healing and elaborate what that looks like in their various contexts.
Main focus for the day will be on individual healing and healing in our context:
5) Day five: Healing in the Bigger Picture
Objective: The participants to describe how healing looks like in the bigger picture aligning it with agenda 2063 of the African Union-AU.
Application process
For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here
To apply for the course, download the training application here
Send your completed application form to any of the following emails:
copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com
Profiles of the Trainers
Eugenia Mpande:
Eugenia is a psychosocial trauma professional, counselor and a mental health activist working in Zimbabwe. She has devoted much of her 20 years profession to extensive work with individuals (adults and children), families, community groups and members from civil society organizations who have lived both traumatic and trauma genic experiences. Over the years, she has developed trauma informed care programmes and materials for communities, volunteer facilitators and frontline workers
Eugenia is deeply committed to holistic, survivor-driven, and community owned trauma healing interventions that help to interrupt repetitive cycles of violence. She has specialist skills in transcultural mental health and highly experienced in communicating psychological concepts in a localized context for easy practical use by communities.
She has highly developed writing and critical skills which have seen her contributing to an article in the American Journal of Peace Psychology “Community Intervention During Ongoing Political Violence: What Is Possible? What Works?” She holds a Master of Social Sciences degree in Child and Family Studies (Specializing in Psychotherapy) with Africa University.
Winnie Orodi
Winnie is trauma informed psychologist and mental health practitioner in Kenya. In the last 5 years, Winnie has implemented trauma informed mental wellness practices in grassroots communities crippled by violent conflict. From this transformational involvement, she has garnered tools and skills for holistic healing informed by existing traditional practices in Africa. Her work has centered on gender, social justice and multicultural issues with a major focus on Trauma-Informed Practice.
She has facilitated for individuals and groups to understand how their environment, past and present, impacts their well-being and how they can find ways to break free from cycles of violence. She has worked in various settings including NGOs, and private practice and has held various roles including Mental Health Therapist, Community Advocate, Associate Counselor, and Advisor on Trauma-Informed Practice.
Winnie is an avid writer and has coauthored a psychosocial support manual for the National Police of Kenya, Muamko Mpya[1]-Healing the Uniform. The manual has been instrumental in providing police officers with tools for re-examining of traumatic events and support the development of trauma-informed skills to enhance mental wellbeing and resilience.
Dr. Simon Fisher
Simon is a widely respected conflict transformation specialist and academic with extensive global experience. He is a facilitator, writer, educator and trainer who has worked in over 40 countries over the past 25 years. He has spent many years living and working in Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia supporting action for change. His background is in education and development, as well as conflict transformation, with governmental and non-governmental organizations.
In 1991 he founded Responding to Conflict (RTC), an internationally renowned education and training organization based in Birmingham, UK, which continues to train policy makers, academics and practitioners from all over the world. Simon has been an Honorary Research Fellow at the Department of Peace Studies, University of Bradford and holds a PhD from Oxford Brookes University, where he currently lectures in the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP). He also teaches at universities in Zimbabwe and Cambodia. His focus is always on helping people think about change within and without, both individual and organizational.
Payment Process
Charges: Option 1: US$800: (covers tuition, resource materials, certificate of participation, lunch and refreshments during the training days).
Charges: Option 2: US$ 1300 (covers tuition, resource materials, lunch and refreshments and a certificate of participation. It also covers accommodation and dinner charges from 8^th May in the evening to breakfast on 14^th May 2022)
Kindly note all payments should be made before the commencement of the training and can be done by either cheque payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa (only for Kenyan organizations) or by direct bank transfers (for international participants) (please ask for banking details).
Selected organizations in Africa whose staff members have attended some of COPA trainings;
American Friends Service Committee-Kenya, Somalia & Zimbabwe
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC)-Uganda
GIZ/CPS-Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan,
Network of Traditional & Religious Peacemakers organization-Somalia
Saferworld-South Sudan and Somalia
SOS Sahel-Sudan
Tearfund-South Sudan, Sudan & Nigeria
Trocaire-South Sudan
Different Universities in Sudan-(Al-Fasher, Blue Nile, Daraj, Diling, Gadarif, Khartoum, Nyala and Red Sea)
AGIAMONDO-Burundi and the Central Africa Republic
UNICEF-Mali
UNFPA-Burundi
Ministry of Youth & Sports-Liberia
United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur-UNAMID-Sudan
UNDP-DRC, Libya, Mali, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization mission in CAR
United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO)
United Nations Mission in South Sudan-UNMISS
UN Women- Burundi, South Sudan, Sudan and Tanzania
ZOA-Ethiopia, Liberia, South Sudan and Sudan

Selected comments from some past trainings participants
Each and every session was a learning point for me. I liked the discussions held and examples shared, these connected the theory to the practical-Participant from Liberia
I will keep referring to the resources that were provided-A participant from South Sudan
I appreciated the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned-A training participant from Somalia
Selected organizations that have contracted COPA to conduct in-house trainings;
Danish Demining Group-Somaliland
Eastern Africa Standby Force Coordination Mechanism
Intergovernmental Authority on Development-IGAD
Social-Life & Agricultural Development Organization-Somalia
UNFPA-Uganda
UNDP-African Union Project/Peace & Security Project-Ethiopia
1] New Beginning
2022-1st Quarter Trainings
Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation Course; 28^th March to 1^st April 2022, Nairobi, Kenya/Also on Zoom
This course is ideal for: a) Practitioners with basic trainings in peacebuilding and conflict transformation b) Practitioners whose organizations have recently integrated peacebuilding in their on-going programmes; c) Those working in conflict areas and are keen to implement their work in ways that are conflict sensitive, d) Organizations that would want to mainstream peacebuilding in their activities. The training case studies and discussions will be drawn from different conflict and peacebuilding contexts in Africa. The training will be conducted by peacebuilding practitioners who have accumulated years of experience working in different conflict and peacebuilding contexts in Africa
As far as possible, the course will make use of the full range of participatory adult learning models including inquiry, analysis and reflection from participants’ experiences. Participants will engage in individual and group tasks, and case studies analysis. Everything will be focused on finding practical pathways and responses to real problems through an inspiring and hopeful process.
Language of facilitation-English
Expected Training results
A clear understanding of peace, violence and conflict
Increased awareness of theories that inform our peacebuilding interventions
Enhanced knowledge of conflict analysis tools and their usefulness in organizational programming
Increased awareness of mediation and negotiation as conflict management strategies
A better understanding of peacebuilding strategies for different contexts
An enhanced understanding of conflict sensitivity programming in conflict contexts
Training content
Understanding Conflict
Conflict Analysis
Conflict & peacebeuilding theories and how they inform programming
Conflict Management: Negotiation & Mediation
Conflict sensitive programming
Peacebuilding Strategies
Charges
Option 1 Charges: US$1300: The amount covers tuition, full board accommodation @ Convent International Hotel and a certificate of participation.
Option 2 Charges: US $800: The amount covers tuition, conference charges and certificate of participation.
Option 3 charges: US $450: This amount is for those who will opt to join the training via Zoom and the amount covers tuition and a certificate of participation
For more information on the course, download the training prospectus: https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/2022-March-April-PBCT-Course-Training-prospectus.pdf
To apply for this course, download the training application form: https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/March-April-2022-PBCT-Course-application-form.docx

2021-4th Quarter Training
Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 13th to 17th December 2021-Online
Introduction
This course is designed for women and men who are:
Interested in deepening their understanding of gender, human security, peacebuilding and violence prevention in post-conflict contexts;
Keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325, adopted in October 2000) and its implications to programs that focus on gender, reduction of gender-based violence, women, peace and security;
Keen to explore the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW, adopted in 1979) and its implications to programs that focus on promoting gender equity, gender mainstreaming and women human rights; and
Scholars and practitioners interested in how Human Security and Peacebuilding strategies can be enhanced through gender-sensitive approaches from design through implementation and evaluation of programs.
The Course Content
Understanding violence against women: Violence is one way of dealing with conflicts (Galtung (1990, 1996) and is represented in three separate types distinguished as physical, structural or cultural. Among the issues to be looked at the training will be the escalation of violence against women in situations of violent conflicts and representing tragic development in which women are targeted in all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Linking Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Human Security and Peacebuilding: Current international standards addressing GBV in conflict and post conflict areas draw upon a wide array of provisions contained in a variety of human rights instruments that safeguard women and girls. The course will help participants identify relevant provisions in selected CEDAW articles which they can advance towards the prevention of sexual violence against women in situations of conflict.
Gendering Conflict transformation around UNSCRs: In reference to grassroots based case studies benefiting indirectly and directly from the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008), the participants will look at what these resolutions are, their various provisions, relation to women in conflict areas, and how to incorporate them in ongoing peacebuilding and reconstruction work with the participants contexts.
Human security paradigm and its relevance to women violence prevention: Human security paradigm perceives the ordinary citizen including women as a purpose and not as a means to security. The training will identify and emphasize the considerations for human security as integrated approach to conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
Gender Mainstreaming in peacebuilding: Women continue to be underrepresented in peacebuilding processes, be it in conflict prevention, management or post conflict reconstruction, yet research shows that where women engage in the above, violence often declines and it becomes easier to build more sustainable peace. The session will explore the various strategies that programmes/organizations can put in place to ensure effective participation and contribution of women in the processes.
Training methodology
The training will be conducted online using Zoom with each day comprising 5 hours ( 3 hours of guided learning and 2 hours of group and individual reflections). The trainers will prepare mini-lectures on core content as discussion starters then build on other adult leaning methods like storytelling, group tasks, role plays and simulation and panels. Where necessary, we will also invite resource persons with expertise on some themes to share their knowledge and experience.
The learning space will be organised to provide a supportive and challenging environment so that by the end of the course, all participants will be able to propose ways they can embed or enhance gender sensitive programming and initiatives relevant to their own contexts
For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here
To apply for the course, download the training application form here
Filled in application forms should be sent to COPA by email. All received applications will be acknowledged and if successful a corresponding letter of admission and other necessary documentations will be sent to the applicant. Please send your completed application to any of the following emails:
copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com
Payment Process
Training charges
US$ 450: The amount covers tuition, soft copy resource materials and an e-certificate of completion. Payment can be done by bank transfer (kindly ask for banking details) or by cheques payable to coalition For Peace in Africa for Kenyan based organizations
Kindly note all payments should be made before the commencement of the training and can be done by either cheque payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa (only for Kenyan organizations) or by direct bank transfers (for international participants) (please ask for banking details).
2. Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 13th to 17th December-Online
The training is ideal for practitioners working in the fields of Peacebuilding, Peace Keeping Operations, Development, Humanitarian Relief, Human Rights and Post War Recovery in Africa.
Training Objectives
Increase participants knowledge of different contemporary conflicts in the Greater Horn, Eastern Africa and Great Lakes regions
Enhance participants knowledge of how different conflict and peacebuilding theories relate to their peacebuilding programmes
Enhance participants knowledge of designing post conflict peacebuilding programmes relevant to their contexts
Increase participants knowledge of various peacebuilding strategies for post conflict settings
Expected Training results
At the end of the training, participants will:
Have a deeper understanding of various real-time conflicts in Eastern Africa, the Horn and Great Lakes regions
Be able to use different tools to analyze various real time conflicts
Be able to articulate the different theories of conflict and peacebuilding that inform the fore-mentioned real time conflicts as well as their peacebuilding interventions
Be able to design peacebuilding projects relevant to their contexts
Be aware of strategies that can be replicated in their projects/programmes
Trainers/facilitators of the course will be peacebuilding practitioners with accumulated years of experience in designing and implementing peacebuilding programmes and also in designing and facilitating different levels of peacebuilding trainings in Africa and beyond.
The online learning infrastructure will be accessible and easy to use by all participants. Each day will comprise 5 hours of active learning. The training will be practical, drawing examples from post conflict contexts in the Greater Horn, Eastern Africa and Great Lakes regions.   The training will make use of use of a wide range of participatory adult learning models including inquiry, case study analysis, individual and online group tasks and reflections from participants’ experiences. Everything will be focused on finding practical pathways and responses to real problems through an inspiring and hopeful process. We encourage participants to read the resources that will be offered before and during the course and to keep a learning diary throughout the 5 days.
All those who successfully complete the course will be issued with a virtual certificate via email. Full attendance of the course is a requirement for the certificate of Completion.
The Course Content
Contemporary conflicts in the Greater Horn, Eastern Africa and Great Lakes regions
This section is aimed at broadening participants understanding of various conflicts that have been experienced in different countries in the Greater Horn, Eastern Africa and Great Lakes regions. Participants will be introduced to different tools of analysis that will help them to better understand among other things the conflicts historical background, actors, root causes, disputed issues, entry levels for interventions among other things.
Conflict and Peacebuilding Theories
This section will explore the various theories that explain conflict causes and inform peacebuilding interventions. During the sessions participants will be given the opportunity to:
Identify theories that inform some of the real time conflicts in the Great Lakes, the Horn and Eastern Africa regions
Identify context specific peacebuilding interventions
Work in teams to practice new theories and concepts
Post Conflict peacebuilding programming
This session will focus on the key components of post conflict peacebuilding programmes. Components to be explored will include but will not be limited to: political dialogue/reconciliation, security frameworks in post-conflict arrangement, including Disarmament, Demobilization & Reintegration (DDR), Institutional strengthening and support, women and youth participation in post conflict peacebuilding among others.
Peacebuilding Strategies
This session will include case studies of successful post conflict peacebuilding interventions at the community and national levels. Participants will draw key lessons from each of the cases as well as extract strategies that are relevant to their implementation contexts.
Application documents:
For more information about the course download the training prospectus here
To apply to the course, kindly download the training application form here
Application process
Filled in application forms should be sent to COPA by email. All received applications will be acknowledged and if successful a corresponding letter of admission and other necessary documentations will be sent to the applicant. Please send your completed application to any of the following emails:
copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com
Payment Process
Training charges
US$ 450: The amount covers tuition, soft copy resource materials and an e-certificate of completion. Payment can be done by bank transfer (kindly ask for banking details) or by cheques payable to coalition For Peace in Africa for Kenyan based organizations
Selected organizations in Africa whose staff members have attended some of COPA trainings;
American Friends Service Committee-Kenya, Somalia & Zimbabwe
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC)-Uganda
GIZ/CPS-Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Sudan,
Network of Traditional & Religious Peacemakers organization-Somalia
Saferworld-South Sudan and Somalia
SOS Sahel-Sudan
Tearfund-South Sudan, Sudan & Nigeria
Trocaire-South Sudan
Different Universities in Sudan-(Al-Fasher, Blue Nile, Daraj, Diling, Gadarif, Khartoum, Nyala and Red Sea)
AGIAMONDO-Burundi and the Central Africa Republic
UNICEF-Mali
UNFPA-Burundi
Ministry of Youth & Sports-Liberia
United Nations African Union Mission in Darfur-UNAMID-Sudan
UNDP-DRC, Libya, Mali, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization mission in CAR
United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO)
United Nations Mission in South Sudan-UNMISS
UN Women- Burundi, South Sudan, Sudan and Tanzania
ZOA-Ethiopia, Liberia, South Sudan and Sudan
Selected organizations that have contracted COPA to conduct in-house trainings;
Danish Demining Group-Somaliland
Eastern Africa Standby Force Coordination Mechanism
Intergovernmental Authority on Development-IGAD
Oxfam-Kenya
Social-Life & Agricultural Development Organization-Somalia
UNFPA-Uganda
UNDP-African Union Project/Peace & Security Project-Ethiopia
Community Organization Practitioners Association-Kenya
Selected comments from some of the trainings participants
Each and every session was a learning point for me. I liked the discussions held and examples shared, these connected the theory to the practical-Participant from Liberia in the Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course
I will keep referring to the resources that were provided-A participant from South Sudan
I appreciated the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned-A training participant from Somalia
2021-3rd Quarter Training Schedule
Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 26th to 30th July 2021-Online
Introduction
This training is ideal for women and men practitioners with experience in peacebuilding. In particular, the course is designed for women and men who are:
Interested in deepening their understanding of gender, human security, peacebuilding and violence prevention in post-conflict contexts;
Keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325, adopted in October 2000) and its implications to programs that focus on gender, reduction of gender-based violence, women, peace and security;
Keen to explore the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW, adopted in 1979) and its implications to programs that focus on promoting gender equity, gender mainstreaming and women human rights; and
Scholars and practitioners interested in how Human Security and Peacebuilding strategies can be enhanced through gender-sensitive approaches from design through implementation and evaluation of programs.
The Course Content
Understanding violence against women: Violence is one way of dealing with conflicts (Galtung (1990, 1996) and is represented in three separate types distinguished as physical, structural or cultural. Among the issues to be looked at the training will be the escalation of violence against women in situations of violent conflicts and representing tragic development in which women are targeted in all forms of Gender Based Violence (GBV).
2. Linking Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Human Security and Peacebuilding: Current international standards addressing GBV in conflict and post conflict areas draw upon a wide array of provisions contained in a variety of human rights instruments that safeguard women and girls. The course will help participants identify relevant provisions in selected CEDAW articles which they can advance towards the prevention of sexual violence against women in situations of conflict.
3. Gendering Conflict transformation around UNSCRs: In reference to grassroots based case studies benefiting indirectly and directly from the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 (2000) and 1820 (2008), the participants will look at what these resolutions are, their various provisions, relation to women in conflict areas, and how to incorporate them in ongoing peacebuilding and reconstruction work with the participants contexts.
4. Human security paradigm and its relevance to women violence prevention: Human security paradigm perceives the ordinary citizen including women as a purpose and not as a means to security. The training will identify and emphasize the considerations for human security as integrated approach to conflict transformation and peacebuilding.
5. Gender Mainstreaming in peacebuilding: Women continue to be underrepresented in peacebuilding processes, be it in conflict prevention, management or post conflict reconstruction, yet research shows that where women engage in the above, violence often declines and it becomes easier to build more sustainable peace. The session will explore the various strategies that programmes/organizations can put in place to ensure effective participation and contribution of women in the processes.
Training methodology
Like other COPA training programs, this workshop is designed and delivered through adult learning methodologies. Participants will, therefore, engage in interactive and experiential learning that draws on the experiences and perspectives of both women and men in engaging with issues of gender, human security and peacebuilding.
The training will be conducted online using Zoom with each day comprising 5 hours ( 3 hours of guided learning and 2 hours of group and individual reflections). The trainers will prepare mini-lectures on core content as discussion starters then build on other adult leaning methods like storytelling, group tasks, role plays and simulation and panels. Where necessary, we will also invite resource persons with expertise on some themes to share their knowledge and experience.
The learning space will be organised to provide a supportive and challenging environment so that by the end of the course, all participants will be able to propose ways they can embed or enhance gender sensitive programming and initiatives relevant to their own contexts.
How to Apply
More information about the training can be found onhttps://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/July-2021-GHSPBCT-Course-Training-prospectus.pdf
The training application form can be downloaded from https://copafrica.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/July-2021-GHSPBCT-Course-application-form.docx
Filled in application forms should be sent to COPA by email. All received applications will be acknowledged and if successful a corresponding letter of admission and other necessary documentations will be sent to the applicant. Please send your completed application to any of the following emails:
copa@copafrica.org
trainings@copafrica.org
copafricatrainings@gmail.com
Payment Process
Kindly note all payments should be made before the commencement of the training and can be done by either cheque payable to the Coalition for Peace in Africa (only for Kenyan organizations) or by direct bank transfers (for international participants) (please ask for banking details).
Selected Comments from past participants
The discussions were brilliant and I learnt a lot from them
I have a different perspective of security; achieving high levels of human security is the key to conflict transformation
The trainers were knowledgeable and experienced
I will now conduct a proper gender and conflict analysis from a human security perspective
The most important learning for me was CEDAW and its linkages to cultural, social, economic and political rights.
I now know that human security is the gateway to peacebuilding and conflict transformation
The most important lesson I learned is knowing the critical roles of women in peacebuilding especially in the contemporary development agenda
I enjoyed the diversity of the group and the participants from many different countries. It enriched my learning and kept me very attentive through- out the week

2021 -1st Quarter Training Schedule

Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 8th to 12th March 2021 @ the Convent International Hotel, Convent Drive, off James Gichuru Road in Lavington, Nairobi, Kenya.

This training is ideal for practitioners working in the fields of Peacebuilding, Peace Keeping Operations, Development, Humanitarian Relief, Human Rights and Post War Recovery in Africa.

Specifically it will address capacity needs of; a) Practitioners who design and implement peacebuilding programmes, b) Practitioners who would want to implement their peacebuilding programmes in ways that are conflict sensitive, c) Practitioners who would want to be conflict transformation multipliers, d) Practitioners whose organizations have intentions of mainstreaming peacebuilding in their initiatives. The training case studies and discussions will be drawn from different conflict and peacebuilding contexts in Africa.

Areas of focus will be on:

Understanding Conflict & Conflict Analysis
Conflict & Peacebuilding Theories
Conflict Management
Conflict Sensitivity in Peacebuilding
Peacebuilding Strategies

For more information about the course, download the Training Prospectus here

To apply for this course, download the Training Application form here

Selected organizations that supported participants to the course in 2019

GIZ-Kenya, Ethiopia & South Sudan Programmes
Finn Church Aid-South Sudan
Rural Women Peace Link-Kenya
Ministry of Youth & Sports-Government of Liberia
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Central Africa Republic (MINUSCA)
Dorcas Aid-Ethiopia
Social- Life & Agricultural Development Organization-SADO-Somalia
Khartoum University-Sudan
University of Gadarif-Sudan
UN-Women-Tanzania
UNICEF-Mali
ZOA International-Liberia
Justice & Peace Coordinator Caritas-Maral Diocese in Kenya
UNDP Somalia& Sudan
Refugee Consortium-Kenya

Selected Comments from 2019 Participants to this course

I learned new terminologies in peacebuilding. I will apply the knowledge at my work place and in the communities we work with
I will keep referring to the resources that were provided
I will apply the knowledge and skills through workshops and trainings at community level
I appreciate the many tools of analysis and I will contextualize them in my work
I gained more knowledge than I had expected. It was a good experience, learning from different backgrounds.
My greatest learning was the cultural and direct violence including the hidden roles women play in conflicts and the transformative actions that need to be undertaken in order to resolve.
Each and every session was a learning point for me. I liked the discussions held and examples shared, these connected the theory to the practical

2. Gendering Human Security, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 15th to 19th March 2021 @ Convent International Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya

Participants to this course are expected to be from within the NGOs sector, civil society, government agencies and other institutions supporting or learning peace issues, gender mainstreaming, CEDAW, UNSCR 1325 and GBV prevention in fragile environments.

Specifically, it will address capacity needs of:

Practitioners who are interested in getting a deeper understanding of gender and violence prevention in post-conflict transitions,
Practitioners who would like to have a deeper understanding of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Violence Against Women (CEDAW) and a deeper analysis of how its promoting gender equity and women human rights;
Practitioners who would like to explore Human Security as a strategy that can be used to achieve gender equity, reduce gender based violence and hasten conflict transformation and peacebuilding
Practitioners who are keen to explore the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (UNSCR 1325) and how it relates to Women, Peace and Security.
Practitioners with an interest on gender mainstreaming in their programmes including in the peacebuilding practice

Areas of focus will be:

Understanding Violence Against Women
Linking the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women(CEDAW), Human Security & Peacebuilding
Gendering Conflict Transformation around United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCRs)
Human Security Paradigm and its relevance to Women violence prevention
Gender mainstreaming in peacebuilding

For more information about this course, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the Training Application form here

Selected organizations that supported participants to the course in 2019

Saferworld-South Sudan& Somalia
United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
SOS Sahel –Sudan
PAX-South Sudan
UNDP Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan & Mali
Presidential Amnesty office in Nigeria
Oxfam South Sudan
Congo Peace network-DRC
International Development Research Centre- Kenya
United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
GIZ Kenya & Rwanda
Ejo Youth-Rwanda
Justice & Peace Commission- Catholic Diocese of Torit-South Sudan
Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) -Uganda
UN Women-Ethiopia

Selected 2019 Participants’ Comments about this course

The discussions were brilliant and I learnt a lot from them
I have a different perspective of security; achieving high levels of human security is the key to conflict transformation
The trainers were knowledgeable and experienced
I appreciate the organizational aspects of the course from the registration, the obtaining of visas, the airport pick-up and the reception at the Convent International hotel. It was all very well planned.
I will now conduct a proper gender and conflict analysis from a human security perspective
The most important learning for me was CEDAW and its linkages to cultural, social, economic and political rights.
I now know that human security is the gateway to peacebuilding and conflict transformation
All those in peacebuilding should attend this training. I will recommend it to our staff and partners
I have a deeper understanding on UNSCR 1325
The most important lesson I learned is knowing the critical roles of women in peacebuilding especially in the contemporary development agenda
I enjoyed the diversity of the group and the participants from many different countries. It enriched my learning and kept me very attentive through- out the week

3. Training of Trainers in Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation Course; 26th to 30th April 2021-Online

This training is ideal for practitioners who are engaged in the designing, facilitating and evaluation of training programmes/projects. The training is divided into two main parts with Part One focusing on building participants competencies in Understanding Conflict & Conflict Analysis, Conflict Management and Peacebuilding Strategies while Part Two is wholly dedicated to the enhancement of participants’ competencies as trainers.

Objectives of the training

To Deepen participants Understanding of Conflict, Conflict Analysis, Conflict Management and Peacebuilding Strategies
To Enhance participants skills in designing, facilitating and evaluating trainings (including online trainings)
To enhance participants knowledge and skills on how to take their trainings online

Training Content: Part One:

Setting the Scene- Understanding Conflict & Conflict Analysis
Conflict Management Skills
Peacebuilding Strategies

Training Content: Part Two:

Fundamentals in Adult learning
Exploring the role of a facilitator/training in dynamic contexts
Designing a training curriculum (including online training)
Facilitation skills and techniques (including for online training)
Evaluating a training programme (including online training)

For more information about this training, download the Training Prospectus here

To apply for this training, download the Training Application Form here

Selected organizations that supported participants to this course in 2020 (online)

University of Khartoum-Sudan
GIZ-Ethiopia & South Sudan
AGIAMONDO-Burundi & Italy
Action Medeor-Germany
Peace & Development Centre-Ethiopia
Red Sea University-Sudan
Tearfund UK-South Sudan
Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus
UN-Women-Ethiopia
United Nation-African Union Mission in Darfur-UNAMID-Sudan
Diling University-Sudan
University of Gadarif-Sudan

Some comments from the 2020 participants to the course on their key learnings;

We should evaluate our training programme against SO WHAT QUESTIONS
Our trainings should be clear on the change we want to see in the long term not just the short term
As trainers, we should reflect on our actions often and frequently consult with our trainer colleagues
To work effectively with trainings as instruments of change, we need to understand other’s narratives from their point of view.
For a peacebuilding initiative to succeed, the stockholders need to be the ones to want and instigate the change in their behaviors
We are just facilitators of change, the real experts are the people involved in the situation/conflict. Sometimes they might just lack the tools or can’t see the situation with a different lens. The task of the trainer is to facilitate this change in different ways, such as empowering them, providing new perspectives or creating opportunities of encounter and discussion.
We should work towards the objective of conflict resolution and positive peace, not simply negative peace.

We take this opportunity to wish you a more Productive, more Hopeful and a Safer Year.

Training of Trainers in Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation, 21st to 25th August 2023, Nairobi & on Zoom

The training objectives

To Deepen participants Understanding of Conflict, Violence, Peacebuilding & Conflict Transformation
To Enhance participants skills in designing, facilitating and evaluating trainings (including online)

The training content

Setting the Scene- Understanding Conflict, Violence and Peace
Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
Fundamentals in Adult learning
Conducting training needs assessments for individuals and organizations
Exploring the roles of a facilitator/training in dynamic contexts
Designing a training curriculum (including online trainings)
Facilitation skills and techniques (including online trainings)
Evaluating a training programme

Some comments from past participants on their key learning from the course;

1) I learnt that we should evaluate our training programme against ‘SO WHAT QUESTIONS’

2) I learnt that our trainings should be clear on the change we want to see in the long term not just the short term

For more information about the course, download the training prospectus here

To apply for the course, download the training application form here.