The final phase of the Military Observers Course (MILOBS) is currently ongoing at the Kofi Annan International Peace Keeping Training Center (KAIPTC). The course which is funded by Global Affairs Canada is part of continuous efforts to address the challenges of under deployment of female officers in UN Peace Operations as well as to enable Ghana Armed Forces to deploy females for missions both at home and abroad.
Thirty-one personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces, comprising twenty-five females and six males, will in three weeks undertake class discussions, practical and role-playing exercises and review case studies to make the learning process smooth and more relatable. By the end of the training, participants will be equipped with the requisite skills, knowledge and techniques to effectively and efficiently operate when deployed by the UN for various peace operation missions.
Speaking at opening ceremony, the Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, Air Commodore David Akrong appreciated Global Affairs Canada for their continuous support and partnership with the Center. He also encouraged participants to share their experiences and build friendships alongside maintaining a high standard of discipline.
In delivering her opening remarks, Ms. Bertha Desmennu, Senior Liaison Officer at the Canadian Embassy said that the Canada led initiative is aimed at increasing meaningful participation of the military and policewomen in UN Peace Operations.
“Deploying a diversity of personnel with different perspectives is essential to the success of any mission at home or abroad,” she said. She also reiterated the fact that Ghana is currently the largest contributor of female military peacekeepers to the UN and anticipated that the next time the UN calls for female peacekeepers, participants present will add up to the number.
It is expected that by the end of the three-week course, participants through observations and assessments will familiarize themselves with the core mandates of military observers and by extension perform their respective duties during Peace Support Operations.