Kigali, 10 August 2024

Today, representatives of member states of the East African Standby Force concluded a ten-day workshop on African Union Compliance and Accountability in Peace Support Operations (CAPSOC) in Kigali.

The workshop aimed to strengthen the capacities of EASF member states to ensure accountability in peacekeeping missions with respect to international humanitarian law, international human rights, conduct and discipline in the mandating, planning and execution of AU Peace Support Operations, protection of civilians (PoCs), prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse in PSOs, child protection and the protection of refugees and displaced persons.

The Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga who presided over the closing ceremony; expressed gratitude to the member states that participated in the course. He underscored the significance of the training, which highlighted the commitment of both East African Standby Force member states and the African Union in addressing continental peace and security challenges.

He also urged that the knowledge and skills gained from this vital course should strengthen their abilities to perform their duties more effectively in protecting civilians, women and children, and to be accountable in implementing a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, both in the region and across the continent.