The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) launched a transformative two-week Protection of Civilians (POC) course, generously funded by the Swiss government. Thirty dedicated participants from nine diverse countries, including Benin, Cameroon, The Gambia, Germany, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Ghana, and Switzerland, eagerly embarked on this crucial journey.
This intensive program is designed to arm participants with the indispensable skills and knowledge needed to effectively execute POC mandates within peace operations. Its overarching objective is to mitigate the suffering endured by civilians amidst conflicts, ultimately striving to minimize their exposure to violence, displacement, hostage-taking, sexual violence, and massacres.
During the opening ceremony, Air Commodore David Akrong, Deputy Commandant of KAIPTC, poignantly underscored the harrowing plight of civilians in armed conflicts. He passionately emphasized how civilians often bear the brunt of violence, enduring unimaginable atrocities. Air Commodore Akrong fervently stressed the paramount importance of upholding the sacred distinction between civilians and combatants, a principle all too often disregarded with catastrophic consequences.
He lauded the Swiss government for its steadfast support of KAIPTC and its unwavering commitment to bolstering peace and security across Africa. Meanwhile, Mrs. Marlene Shenck, the Political Advisor at the Swiss Embassy in Ghana, echoed these sentiments in her remarks, reaffirming Switzerland’s staunch dedication to safeguarding civilians and upholding international humanitarian law and human rights.
In her address, Mrs. Shenck highlighted the indispensable role of training in contemporary peacekeeping operations, where civilian protection has emerged as a central tenet of mission mandates. She pledged Switzerland’s enduring commitment to advancing these vital priorities, leveraging all available resources to ensure a safer and more secure world for all.