NATICC staff took part in the 10th Edition of the annual Mahamba Gorge Hiking event as part of their second debrief exercise in the year 2024. This year’s theme was “Nkwe!! Let’s Invest to Prevent GBV”, which means it is everyone’s duty to combat GBV. This day-long activity took place on the 28th April 2024 and served not only as a physical challenge but also as a staff bonding opportunity to strengthen internal team dynamics and foster connections beyond the workplace. By navigating diverse and challenging terrains, staff members were empowered with a sense of balance and stability, symbolic of their commitment to navigating the complexities of their work in combating gender-based violence (GBV) and provided a short-lived respite from daily stresses by creating a relaxed and open environment conducive for reflection and discussion.

The physical demands of hiking encouraged participants to regulate their breathing and focus on physical coordination to avoid injury, paralleling the need for vigilance and endurance in their professional roles. This experience underscored the importance of teamwork, communication and mutual support, essential elements in combating GBV and community empowerment. Moreover, the natural setting of Mahamba Gorge provided a serene backdrop for self-introspection and reflection as staff members conquered physical challenges together. The NATICC staff debrief at Mahamba Gorge was not just a recreational outing but also an opportunity to reinforce team cohesion and renew