THE ANNUAL AFRICAN COUNTER-IED CONFERENCE KICKS OFF IN NAIROBI

The 7th Annual African Counter Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) Conference kicked off on October 7, 2025, at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi. This three-day conference, which will run until October 9, 2025, brings together security experts from across the continent to discuss current C-IED trends and threats. The conference was officially opened by the Vice Chief of Kenya Defence Forces (VCDF) Lt General John Omenda.

HPSS is a premier training center which is well-suited to host the event, given its expertise in providing high-quality training in mine action, disaster management, and peace support operations. The conference aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, experience and best practices in countering the threat of improvised explosive devices, which continue to pose a significant threat to peace and security in Africa and beyond.

In his opening address, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda, emphasized the significance of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) conference in Kenya, highlighting its impact on both uniformed personnel and civilians. According to the context, he noted that the conference enhances efforts to address the threat posed by IEDs, which is a challenge that needs to be confronted head-on and with determination.He noted on the KDF reinforcement on its commitment to regional security and stability, particularly given its proximity to Somalia, where IED threats are prevalent.

“It is my honor to stand in for the Chief of Defence Forces and welcome you all to the 7th Annual African Counter Improvised Explosive Device Conference. I extend a warm welcome to our international partners and member states who have joined us today. Over the next three days, we will engage in a comprehensive forum to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in countering the threat of IED’s. This conference provides a unique opportunity for us to learn from each other and take back valuable insights to our respective countries. I am confident that the discussions and presentations will be informative, thought-provoking, and enriching. Our focus will be on introducing and exploring realistic training methodologies that can be applied in real-world scenarios.” He highlighted.

Other notable guests present were the UK High Commission Defence Advisor to Kenya Brigadier Oliver Bryant, Director International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) Major General Charles L Mwazighe, Commandant HPSS Brigadier Cleopas Mundui, Commander Engineers Brigade Brigadier Joseph Mutua, Senior Military Officer representatives across Africa, SME’s among other invited guests.