Capacity building for EACRF Troops on International Humanitarian Law
East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) Headquarters Staff Officers and Guard & Admin personnel comprising FARDC and Kenya Defence Forces completed a two-day training conducted by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) at the Regional Force Headquarters from 8th to 9th August 2023.
The Force Commander (FC) Major General Aphaxard Kiugu in the company of Brig Gen Emmanual Kaputa - Deputy Force Commander and Brig Gen Michael Kibuye - Chief of Staff welcomed the delegation from ICRC, led by the Deputy Head of the Sub - delegation in Goma Anne-Sylvie Linder, and officially opened the training where participants were taken through the fundamental principles of ICRC and aspects of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), and its application in armed conflicts.
Further, the facilitators tackled the International Human Rights Law parameters as applied in Peace Support Operations. Other aspects covered included the Protection of Civilians, treatment of IDPs & handling of non-combatants, women and children in a conflict situation.
While closing the training, the ICRC head of delegation appreciated the FC for allowing them an opportunity to discuss with EACRF staff & personnel. The FC commended the ICRC delegation for enriching EACRF personnel knowledge on IHL and other important aspects regarding POC.