The opening ceremony marked the beginning of an intensive training program of 36 female soldiers from 13 countries, including Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Malawi, Benin, Tanzania, Morocco, Tunisia, Zambia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Jordan.

This initiative aligns with international efforts to promote gender equality in security forces, empowering female soldiers to take on leadership roles in peace support operations. As the course began, participants expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and contribute to global peacekeeping efforts.

Lieutenant Colonel Lee Wildey, the Tangham representative, highlighted the significance of the AASC, while Lieutenant Colonel Kaptuway, the Deputy Commandant of HPSS, emphasized the crucial role of well-trained search teams in supporting the other two Counter Improvised Explosive Device pillars.

The course is based on the recognition that peace support and peacekeeping operations (PSO/PKO) have become increasingly dynamic and complex, with civilians often bearing the greatest burden of conflict. As a result, the protection of civilians has become a central mandate, frequently used as a measure of success in peace operations. This course is designed to enhance participants’ understanding of POC frameworks and intricacies, thereby contributing to the operational effectiveness of the African Standby Forces.

The course has participants from Botswana, Comoros, Ethiopia, Finland, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and Zambia.

In his opening remarks, the Commandant HPSS, Colonel Rongoei highlighted the importance of the training, stating, "This course aims to provide you with the necessary tools to assess, plan, and implement Protection of Civilians activities effectively within both UN and AU peace operations."

This two-week course is expected to provide valuable insights that will enhance the capabilities of peacekeepers involved in protecting vulnerable populations in conflict zones.