Mogadishu – The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) has completed a six-week On-the-Job Training (OJT) programme for Somali Security Forces (SSF), equipping them with the skills to understand and operate emerging information technology solutions to enhance their operations.

Eight personnel from the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) and the Somali Police Force (SPF) attended the training from 23 June to 7 August, conducted by UNSOS Field Technology Section (UNSOS-FTS).

UNSOS-FTS Chief of Service Management Unit, Paul Irefo, said the initiative is part of a strategic investment in Somalia’s security and operational resilience, executed under a tripartite memorandum of understanding signed with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), United Nations (UN), and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS).

“This is not just a training programme; it is a strategic investment in the future of Somalia’s security and operational resilience,” said Irefo, during the closing ceremony in Mogadishu.

“You are now better equipped to contribute meaningfully to your units and the broader mission.”

The training covered various key topics, including introduction to information technology, networking, solar power systems, software and servers, computer hardware, cyber and information security, satellite communication, and Microsoft 365.

Since its launch in April 2024, UNSOS has trained 36 SSF personnel under its capacity-building OJT programme. 

The SPF Director of Communications, Brigadier General Abdikarim Hussein Moalim, highlighted the crucial role of effective communication in fostering interoperability between the police and military forces. Brig. Gen. Moallim urged participants to utilise their newly acquired skills to enhance operational effectiveness.  

“I hope that whichever unit you are assigned to, you will make a significant contribution,” said Brig. Gen. Moalim.

SNAF’s Head of Communications, Colonel Abdullahi Hussein Duhulow, commended UNSOS for its invaluable support in building the forces’ capacity, saying, “Without UNSOS, we don’t know where we would be today.”

UNSOS Integrated Mission Training Centre (IMTC) Capacity Building Specialist, Alvin Thomas, commended the SSF leadership for partnering with UNSOS in enhancing their personnel’s operational capacity. 

“As a mission, we are pleased to witness this level of engagement, particularly in understanding the needs and inputs from leadership, ensuring that we are on the right path in serving the Somali Security Forces,” said Thomas.

A participant from SNAF, Lieutenant Hassan Mohamed Osobow, thanked UNSOS for the training and requested further advanced courses.

“The training we received was valuable and instructive, and we have learned a lot,” said Lt. Hassan.