On behalf of the Commander African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Sector II- Brig Edward Banda, Lt Col Galgalo Liban of KDF on 08 Jan 26, officially opened a one-week Route Search and Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Course at the Sector Headquarters in Kismayo.
The course is training the first cohort of sixteen Somalia Security Forces personnel, with three additional cohorts planned to follow. Through this phased approach, a wider number of the personnel will be equipped with essential Route Search and Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED) skills. The participants are being trained by AUSSOM-KDF EOD personnel, who bring operational experience and practical expertise to ensure the training is relevant, hands-on, and aligned with the realities on the ground. They are expected not only to be EOD experts but also to serve as Trainers of Trainers, supporting further skill transfer.
Addressing the participants, Lt Col Liban emphasized the need for every soldier to be trained and skilled in C-IEDs. He urged the participants to fully commit to the course so they can effectively support their fellow soldiers within their respective units. He also stressed that discipline is a key pillar of training and the success of any military, noting that the same standard applies throughout the course.
“Every military training is meant to transform you. Discipline means doing the right thing at the right time and in the right manner. It is not about what you think is right, but about doing what is right. We are called to be disciplined not out of fear, but because discipline is the foundation of any military,” he said.
Representing the Somalia Forces leadership, Col Bashir Guhaad, urged the troops to commit their efforts to gaining skills from the course in order to sustain operations against terror in the region. He further extended his appreciation to AUSSOM-KDF and United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) for their support in capacity building of the Somalia Forces.
The Route Search and EOD Course is part of the broader effort to counter the threat of IEDs. It is designed to build practical skills in detecting, identifying, and safely responding to IEDs along key supply routes. By strengthening these capabilities, the course helps reduce risks to both security personnel and civilians, improves freedom of movement, and supports overall stability operations in the Sector.
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