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The United Nations Senior Mission Leaders (SML) Course was officially inaugurated today at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) in Karen. This course, a collaborative effort between the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, the United Kingdom's British Peace Support Team Africa, the United Nations Integrated Service, and the United Nations Department of Peace Operations, was presided over by the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda.
In his address, Lt Gen Omenda emphasized the growing complexity of contemporary peace and security challenges, highlighting the importance of effective leadership in peacekeeping missions. He urged participants to recognize the crucial role of all stakeholders in mission operations. Switzerland's Ambassador to Kenya, HE Amb. Mirko Giuletti, reaffirmed Switzerlandβs dedication to peacebuilding, emphasizing their strong belief in the power of capacity building to foster smart, innovative, and adaptable leadership for sustainable peace.
Brigadier Sitienei, in her remarks, welcomed the participants and urged them to fully engage with the course content, share their experiences, and learn from one another. She emphasized that their active participation and contributions will be vital to the success of the course.
The SML Course, now in its 32nd iteration, has attracted 26 participants from across the globe. The opening ceremony was also attended by the UK Deputy High Commissioner to Kenya, Mr. Ed Barnett, and Ms. Leila Zerrougui, former SRSG of MONUSCO, along with other distinguished mentors.
