A dedicated interview room for minors has been inaugurated at the ZAC Mbao police station, the result of a partnership between the Senegalese National Police and the International Bureau for Children's Rights (IBCR). This new space marks a major step forward in humanizing judicial procedures involving child victims of violence.

Since 2021, the General Directorate of the National Police (DGPN) and the IBCR have been working together to improve the care provided to minors in contact with the justice system. Beyond the construction of infrastructure, the project has enabled the training of officers and the implementation of protocols adapted to the reception of child victims.

The opening of this venue in ZAC Mbao embodies these efforts, offering a setting that meets international standards.

A space conceived as a "sanctuary"

Unlike traditional interrogation rooms, this space was designed to avoid "secondary victimization," that is, the additional trauma that can result from an interrogation in a stark environment.

“For us, this hearing room for minors is a sanctuary. A sanctuary designed by children and for children,” said Cheikh Oumar Ba, representative of the IBCR.

The room is distinguished by its bright and warm colors, creating a reassuring atmosphere. It is equipped with toys to help young children relax, a sofa allowing parents to observe the interview, and a comfortable table where the child and the interviewer sit side-by-side to talk. Every detail has been carefully considered to promote the child's comfort and build trust, ensuring their testimony is heard under the best possible conditions.

A police force closer to children

For the DGPN, this initiative illustrates the desire to place the protection of vulnerable groups at the heart of security action.

"It offers a safe, friendly and professional environment, allowing investigators to gather the child's testimony in the best possible conditions, while respecting their dignity and rights," stressed the deputy director of public security, Divisional Commissioner Aissatou Diagne.

Decisive international support

The project was fully funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), confirming the importance of international solidarity in strengthening justice systems. Thanks to this support, the ZAC Mbao police station now has an essential tool for conducting sensitive investigations.

The representative of the Canadian Embassy, Anushka Shibchurn, reiterated that the "Children My Priority" project is a major commitment for Canada. She emphasized that in many countries where Canada works, sexual and gender-based violence persists, often in silence, leaving deep scars on children.

This program, she explained, has enabled the long-term strengthening of institutions and communities to better prevent and respond to this violence. "It has also contributed to improving the work of stakeholders through targeted training and the provision of appropriate tools," the diplomat added.

Beyond institutional strengthening, the initiative supported the empowerment of girls and boys, giving them the means to protect themselves and actively combat violence. For Canada, Anushka Shibchurn concluded, placing children at the heart of its priorities is essential for building more just and resilient societies.