KDF Personnel Complete Training on Civilian Protection and Human Rights with ATMIS

The training covered International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights, including specific protections for women and children.

Twenty-six Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel serving with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) recently completed a five-day training program focused on civilian protection and human rights. Held in Kismayo sub-sector, the training was organized by the ATMIS Civilian Sector Coordination Team, in collaboration with the Protection, Human Rights and Gender (PHRG) Cluster, the African Union Compliance and Accountability Framework Project (AUCF), and the ATMIS Force Headquarters Gender Office.

ATMIS Senior Protection and Human Rights Officer, Gloria Jasse, underscored the importance of protecting civilians during armed conflicts, noting that they often suffer from violence, sexual abuse, and recruitment into armed groups. "Our troops must uphold the highest standards of conduct to prevent human rights violations," Jasse emphasized.

The training covered International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights, including specific protections for women and children. It aligns with the African Union's mission to support the Somali National Stabilisation Strategy and ensure national security following the withdrawal of ATMIS forces.

AUCF Project Officer Ferdinand Nintunze highlighted the importance of equipping mission personnel—military, police, and civilians—with fundamental knowledge to effectively protect civilians. "This training is essential for those primarily engaged in safeguarding civilians during their operations," Nintunze said.

Participants were educated on protecting vulnerable groups, IHL, Human Rights Law, and measures to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse. Captain Lucy Esinyen of the KDF 2nd Mechanised Infantry Battalion expressed appreciation for the training, stating, "We have gained valuable knowledge on human rights policies, civilian protection, and IHL principles such as proportionality, necessity, and humanity."

Lt. Henry Waithaka emphasized the critical role of protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, in peacekeeping missions. "As military personnel, we are mandated to provide a safe environment for the development of children and to protect vulnerable groups," Lt. Waithaka noted.

This training is part of ATMIS' ongoing commitment to prioritizing civilian protection, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2628 (2022).