In her remarks, Commandant PCSS, Col Ngigi, highlighted that the course offers a unique platform tailored specifically to address the experiences and challenges of female soldiers in peace support operations. She noted that beyond strengthening operational skills, the training provides an opportunity for participants to share perspectives, build networks, and foster mentorship among women serving in diverse militaries. Col Ngigi emphasized that this approach not only enriches individual capacity but also advances the broader goal of inclusivity and effectiveness in peacekeeping missions.

The course sponsored by the Government of Japan through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has 30 female officers from the Kenya Defence Forces.

Supported by the United Nations Triangular Partnership Project (UNTPP) and funded by the Government of Japan and Switzerland, the course aims to provide participants with essential expertise in machine operation and explosive hazard awareness, ensuring they are well-prepared to operate safely within peace support missions.

The Commandant HPSS, Brigadier Mundui, welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude to the UNTPP and its partners for their continued support in strengthening peacekeeping capacity. He noted that the course will equip the trainees with essential knowledge and skills required to effectively carry out their duties in peace support operations. He further emphasized that the training reflects the value of international cooperation in preparing military personnel for the complex demands of modern missions.

The course has 29 participants from Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, and Zambia, facilitated by a chief trainer from Switzerland and instructors from Kenya, Ghana and Tanzania.

During the opening ceremony, the Deputy Commandant HPSS, Colonel Kinyua, underscored the critical role of the course in enhancing the operational readiness of military personnel. He noted that the course blends theoretical knowledge with practical field exercises aimed at deepening understanding, sharpening essential skills, and preparing participants for real-world deployments in peacekeeping missions.

The course has drawn a total of 24 participants from 12 countries, reflecting the multinational nature of United Nations peacekeeping operations. The participating nations include Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Jordan, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Vietnam. This diverse representation fosters a rich exchange of experiences and perspectives, while also strengthening collaboration and interoperability among officers who may serve together in future missions.

Also present during the opening ceremony was the Australian Defence Attaché, Kenya Captain (Navy) Heidi Knellwolf.