SPECIAL ADVISOR TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF JAPAN VISITS HPSS
On 9th April 2026, We had the honour of hosting a high-level delegation from Japan at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS), led by the Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, Mr Oue Sadamasa. He was accompanied by Defence Attaché Japan to Kenya Commander Kawashima Keiko and members of his delegation for a strategic engagement that underscored the enduring collaboration between Japan and the Centre.
The partnership between Japan and IPSTC, which dates back to 2011, continues to stand as a powerful pillar in advancing capacity building for peace support operations. Over the years, this collaboration has significantly enhanced the Centre’s ability to deliver high-impact training, equipping personnel with critical skills to address evolving security challenges and strengthening both regional and global peace efforts.
In his remarks, Our Director, Maj Gen C L Mwazighe, emphasized the transformative impact of the partnership, noting that Japan’s sustained support has been instrumental in shaping the Centre’s growth and excellence.
Mr Oue Sadamasa commended the Centre for its remarkable contribution to peace support operations, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to continued support. He noted that the partnership reflects a shared vision of promoting stability and effectiveness in peace operations, and remains a key driver in fostering sustainable peace and security.
The engagement highlighted the power of sustained partnerships in building highly skilled peace support personnel. Through ongoing collaboration, these efforts are driving innovation in training, enhancing operational effectiveness, and making a meaningful contribution to regional and global peace and security.
The delegation was received by the Director IPSTC Major General C L Mwazighe, and the Commandant HPSS, Brigadier C Mundui. The visit formed part of ongoing engagements aimed at strengthening cooperation and enhancing capacity building in support of international peace operations.
During the visit, the delegation was taken through a comprehensive briefing on the mandate of the institution, its training programmes, and its role in preparing personnel for peace support operations. Discussions highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships in strengthening operational readiness and enhancing the quality of training delivered to peacekeepers preparing for deployment.
The delegation further observed the ongoing Intermediate Machine Operations Course which is sponsored by Japan through the United Nations Triangular Partnership Programme, where trainees are equipped with essential technical and operational skills required to support peacekeeping missions.
The visit emphasized the vital role of continued partnership in advancing skills and expertise for peace support operations, reinforcing the Centre’s standing as a leading regional hub for peacekeeping training and global collaboration.
During the outreach, IPSTC staff conducted awareness and mentorship sessions addressing key issues such as protection from sexual exploitation and abuse, digital safety, and reporting mechanisms for violence and abuse. The sessions were delivered through interactive discussions designed to create awareness while encouraging the children to confidently speak up and seek support when faced with challenges.
In addition, the staff held a general talk centered on the theme “Give to Gain,” encouraging the values of kindness, generosity, and supporting one another within the community. The day was also filled with games and lively interactions that created a joyful environment and strengthened the bond between the staff and the children.
Speaking during the outreach, Commandant PCSS Colonel E Ngigi, emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and investing in the wellbeing of young people. She noted that empowering children with knowledge, guidance, and positive values plays a vital role in shaping confident and responsible individuals.
The event highlighted the importance of community engagement and the impact of collective action in nurturing and empowering young minds. IPSTC reaffirms its commitment to supporting communities and promoting positive change beyond the institution.
