The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) recently concluded a four-day intensive training program on civil-military co-operation (CIMIC) for fourteen Burundi National Defence Force (BNDF) officers. The training, organized jointly by the ATMIS Force Headquarters CIMIC Cell and the United Kingdom-Mission Support Team (UK-MST), aimed to enhance the officers’ understanding of CIMIC principles and practices in peace support operations.
Major General Marius Ngendabanka, the ATMIS Deputy Force Commander in Charge of Operations and Plans, expressed confidence that the objectives of the training had been met and that participants had gained valuable insights from sharing their experiences with facilitators. He emphasized the importance of applying the knowledge acquired during the training to their day-to-day CIMIC duties within the mission.
CIMIC tasks play a crucial role in facilitating coordination, operations, and information sharing between military and civilian stakeholders, including local populations, authorities, non-governmental organizations, and UN agencies. Colonel Ben Ramsey, Commander of the British military’s Operation TANGHAM, commended the participants for their commitment to fostering positive community relationships and strengthening civilian-military co-operation.
The training program included theoretical and practical components such as planning CIMIC activities, assessing the civil environment, conducting negotiations, coordinating humanitarian aid, incorporating a gender perspective, and establishing effective interactions with non-military actors. Lt. Col. Gregoire Ndikumazambo, ATMIS CIMIC Staff Officer One, highlighted the goal of equipping new CIMIC staff officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct frontline CIMIC operations in collaboration with the Somalia National Army (SNA) and external agencies.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the training, with Captain Niyondavyi Ange Salvatrice noting that it equipped her with the skills to effectively communicate with civilians and strengthen community ties. Major Ntihinyuzwa Charles, a CIMIC Officer stationed at Mahaday Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Middle Shabelle, highlighted the role of the Joint Operations Centre (JOC) in enhancing coordination among partners to achieve the mission’s mandate.
The training program concluded with a closing ceremony in Mogadishu, underscoring the importance of CIMIC in building positive relationships with local populations and ensuring the protection and support of communities. As participants return to their respective duties, they are encouraged to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the training to enhance their CIMIC operations within the mission.
This article was distributed by APO Group on behalf of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and highlights the commitment of BNDF officers to advancing CIMIC principles and practices in peace support operations.
