The two-week course has a total of 18 participants, comprising 12 military personnel and 6 police officers. The training aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to address explosive hazards effectively.

In his remarks, the lead facilitator, Major Ali, emphasized the importance of experience sharing, collaboration, and partnership among the participants. He highlighted that the TOT approach ensures a multiplier effect, as the knowledge gained will be disseminated to respective bases and units. He also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Malawi for its commitment to capacity building and regional safety.

The HPSS Mobile Training Team (MTT) concept is closely supported by BPST(A), and now, in its second iteration, represents a key component of such capacity growth. Importantly, on this occasion, also provided the Malawi Defence Forces and Police Services with greater instructor capacity.

This TOT is a crucial step in building regional capacity to mitigate explosive hazards and underscores the value of international cooperation in ensuring safety and security in the region. The dedication of the facilitators and the active participation of attendees are expected to contribute significantly to the success of this program.

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.