GENEVA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR HUMANITARIAN DEMINING (GICHD) WORKSHOP

The opening ceremony of the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) workshop took place at Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) on 17 March 2025. The event brought together key stakeholders in humanitarian demining, security, and capacity-building, with a focus on strengthening partnerships and fostering knowledge exchange.

The workshop is aimed at enhancing the capacity of National Mine Action Authorities (NMAA) and Mine Action Centres (MAC) to respond effectively to IED threats.The Chief Guest Ambassador Tobias Privitelli, Director GICHD emphasized the strong collaboration between GICHD and the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC).

He highlighted the importance of this partnership in advancing humanitarian demining efforts and enhancing regional security. He also expressed his enthusiasm for the workshop, stating that he looked forward to insightful and meaningful discussions that would contribute to effective solutions in the field.

The Director IPSTC Brigadier Joyce C Sitienei assured the participants that IPSTC remains steadfast in the mission to develop and deliver high quality training. She expressed deep appreciation for the continued collaboration.

Also in attendance was IPSTC Colonel Plans & Programmes International Colonel Markus Schefer and Head of Training HPSS Lieutenant Colonel Alex Neukomm.

BOOK VALIDATION WORKSHOP

The Peace and Security Research Department (PSRD) held a successful validation workshop for the book: An Exploration of Gender Integration within Kenya Defence Forces: Its Impact on Operational Effectiveness, at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) in Karen. The event brought together key stakeholders, including Gen (Rtd) S J Mwathethe, Lt Gen (Rtd) W R Koipaton, Lt Gen (Rtd) D I Opande, Lt Gen (Rtd) J Kasaon, Lt Gen (Rtd) N Mwaniki, Maj Gen (Rtd) D N Gichuru, Maj Gen (Rtd) P A Awitta and Brig (Rtd) DR. E M Mwanyika to review and validate the book’s chapters and research findings.

The primary objective of the workshop was to assess the accuracy, relevance, and clarity of the book’s content. A detailed presentation on the book was delivered, outlining its objectives, key themes, research findings, and recommendations. The presentation provided a foundation for discussion, allowing participants to critically analyze the content and provide informed feedback.

The discussion focused on key aspects such as Overview of the Kenya Defence Forces, Institutional challenges and barriers to integrating women into the KDF, Women participation in peace support operations, Regulatory frameworks for integration of women into the military, Historical, cultural barriers and challenges and Women’s contribution to KDF Operational Effectiveness.

Participants engaged in lively discussions, highlighting strengths of the book while also identifying areas that required further refinement. The validation workshop successfully achieved its objective of reviewing and refining the book’s content. Participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to this important work and emphasized the need for continued dialogue on gender integration within the military.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2025

We commemorated International Women’s Day 2025 at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Embakasi, focusing on this year's theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment.”The event was graced by the Cabinet Secretary Ministry for Defence Honourable Soipan Tuya.

In her opening address she affirmed the importance of women stating their importance in society. They play various roles which could be a caring mother, wife, a daughter, and so on. "On this day, it is important to show the women in your life how much you care about them and how much you love them. I am elated to see students in this forum because I feel that educational institutions should equally celebrate Women’s Day."

The event was specially designed for high school girls, providing them with an opportunity to learn from accomplished mentors across various sectors. Through engaging discussions and personal storytelling, the panelists shared valuable insights on leadership, breaking barriers, pathways to success, personal growth and well-being, emphasizing the importance of gender equality and empowerment for all. The General Officer Commanding Eastern Command, Major General Luka Kutto, emphasized the importance of gender equality in career development, urging young girls to pursue their ambitions with confidence.

In her remark, Director IPSTC Brigadier Joyce C. Sitienei, reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. She highlighted IPSTC’s role in promoting inclusive policies and creating opportunities for women in peace and security.

Alongside the chief guest were distinguished mentors namely; UN Women Women, Peace and Security Team Lead Ms. Hellen Muchunu; Rachael KironjiCommissioner of Police, Chief of Legal Services at the Defence Headquarters, Brigadier Yvonne Kerubo, Secretary Gender Ministry of Gender Dr. Josephine Obonyo and Hon Linah Kilimo. Their presence underscored a strong commitment to fostering inclusivity, advocating for women’s rights, and supporting initiatives that empower young girls to become future leaders.

IPSTC remains a Global leader in gender inclusivity and mainstreaming.

GENEVA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR HUMANITARIAN DEMINING (GICHD) WORKSHOP

BOOK VALIDATION WORKSHOP

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2025

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