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.

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.