Recognizing the Sahel region as a hotbed of terrorism, KAIPTC joined forces with the Japanese government and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to tackle the rising threat of violent extremism and small arms proliferation in the Sahel and coastal states of West Africa.
This was done through the implementation of a number of relevant training courses launched in Accra and Cotonou.
- Empowering Stakeholders: The Capacity Building Courses targeted security personnel, media, and civil society, and was aimed to enhance their capacity to combat multifaceted challenges to violent extremism and small arms proliferation in the Sahel and coastal states of West Africa. Through comprehensive modules with relevant practical demonstrations, participants strengthened their knowledge while sharing their mutual experiences and best practices on violent extremism, small arms proliferation and cross-border security management.
- Training of Trainers on Stockpile Management Course: A -five-day Trainer of Trainers Course was held in Abidjan to empower 15 personnel responsible for arms and ammunition management. This course equipped them with adult training skills to train others within their respective agencies. This approach will cascade critical knowledge of best practices in weapons and ammunition management to a wider pool of personnel, ultimately strengthening the efforts to prevent diversions by terrorist groups. Participants also gained exposure to gender concepts and the diverse roles women play in violent extremist groups.
- Logistical Support: The implementation of the programme led to the donation of two motorbikes each to state security agencies in Benin and Cote d’Ivoire to symbolize a commitment to action./ This concrete investment in security and resilience will enhance border policing and support ongoing initiatives to prevent violent extremism.
Building a Safer Future
These initiatives showcased a proactive approach to countering extremism and proliferation. By empowering stakeholders and building capacity, KAIPTC and its partners have laid the groundwork for a safer and more peaceful West Africa.
Handing over of motorbikes to Security Agencies in Cote d’Ivoire
Training of Trainers on Stockpile Management Course