HelpAge International, MANEPO, and STOP Zambia
HelpAge International recently hosted an engaging and transformative four-day workshop from October 28-31, 2024, at the Golden Peacock Hotel in Blantyre. This workshop, called Strategic Humanitarian Assessment, Participatory Empowerment, and Self-Reflection (SHAPE), was organized in partnership with the Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organizations (MANEPO) and Support to Older Persons (STOP) Zambia.
The training was facilitated by Blessings Janyure and Fred Wandera from HelpAge International. Throughout the four days, participants explored best practices and strategic approaches to humanitarian action, with a particular focus on supporting and empowering older persons and people with disabilities during emergency response.
The SHAPE workshop incorporated various participatory methods, including group discussions, scenario-based learning, and interactive role-play. Each session encouraged teams to reflect on their organizational practices, identify gaps, and develop actionable solutions. Participants were deeply engaged in group sessions discussing practical strategies for creating inclusive and effective humanitarian networks, mobilizing resources, and developing systems to ensure older persons and people with disabilities are protected and included in emergency response programmes.
Manepo and STOP teams shared their practices in humanitarian action that build resilience and adaptability in the organization. Emphasis was placed on building positive and constructive relationships with stakeholders. Other topics included advocacy strategies to influence local and international partners, with a specific emphasis on protection and inclusion for older persons in all aspects of humanitarian action.
In addition, the feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing that the training provided them with valuable insights and practical tools to enhance their work in the humanitarian action. The workshop concluded with a call to action for stronger inter-organizational cooperation and a shared commitment to the protection, empowerment, and inclusion of older adults in humanitarian planning and response.
