THE 7TH ANNUAL AFRICAN COUNTER-IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES (C-IED) CONFERENCE
The Humanitarian Peace Support School hosted the 7th Annual African Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED) Conference from 7th–9th October 2025 in Nairobi, uniting military professionals, security experts, and regional partners to strengthen cooperation against the evolving IED threat.
Opened by Lieutenant General J M Omenda, Vice Chief of Defence Forces, Kenya, the conference ran under the theme “A Continental Approach: Creating Situational Awareness of IED Threats Across Africa and Sharing of Best Practices to Counter the Threat.”
Over the three days, participants explored how IEDs shape modern conflict and peace operations through expert sessions and mission case studies. The forum fostered collaboration, practical learning, and new strategies for regional preparedness, policy coordination, and capacity building.
Major General C L Mwazighe, Director IPSTC, emphasized the importance of continued partnership and knowledge sharing to enhance collective resilience against IEDs.The conference leaves a lasting impact, renewed commitment, stronger partnerships, and improved capabilities to safeguard peace and security across Africa.
The Director IPSTC, Major General Charles Mwazighe, thanked Japan for its consistent support in strengthening regional training capacity and emphasized the need for continued investment in advanced training and equipment to meet evolving peacekeeping demands.
The delegation toured HPSS facilities and received a briefing on Counter-IED training.
In a brief but warm ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel Serriere expressed his gratitude to the IPSTC community for the support and camaraderie extended to him during his assignment. He described his time at the Centre as “an invaluable experience of learning, cooperation, and friendship,” highlighting the unique opportunity to engage with colleagues from across Africa and beyond in advancing peace support operations.
The Director IPSTC, Major General Charles Mwazighe, commended Lieutenant Colonel Serriere for his professionalism, dedication, and significant contribution to the Centre’s training agenda. He emphasized that officer exchange programs continue to strengthen collaboration between partner nations, enhancing collective capacity in peacekeeping and regional security.
As part of the farewell, Lieutenant Colonel Serriere was presented with a memento by the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant Colonel Toby Lyle a gesture symbolizing the appreciation of the entire IPSTC fraternity and a lasting reminder of his contribution and bond with the Centre.
The event underscored not only the successful completion of Lieutenant Colonel Serriere’s tour of duty but also the enduring bonds of friendship and professional partnership that define IPSTC’s spirit. As Lieutenant Colonel Serriere departs, the IPSTC fraternity extends its heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for his future career endeavors. Also present during the event were Commandant HPSS Brigadier Mundui, Colonel Plans & Programmes Colonel Koech, Head of Research Colonel Lagat among other international and national officers.
