For nearly two decades now, the Foreign Service Academy (FSA) has played a pivotal role as the National Focal Point for capacity-building efforts for the civilian component of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF). This partnership has empowered hundreds of Kenyan civilians with the skills and expertise needed for deployment to peacekeeping missions, making Kenya a leader in the region’s peace and security initiatives.
Through this collaboration, the EASF has offered a wide array of specialized Peace Support Operations courses tailored to meet the evolving demands of peacekeeping missions. These include training in areas such as compliance and accountability within AU frameworks, integrated mission planning and administration, civilian affairs, and cybersecurity. Other critical areas covered include addressing the needs of children in armed conflict, civilian foundation training, and Africa-focused integrated planning.
Most recently, the Integrated Mission Support Course commenced in Naivasha and will run until December 14, 2024, further underscoring the ongoing commitment to training and readiness. By equipping participants with these diverse skills, the partnership has significantly enhanced Kenya’s capacity to contribute to regional peacebuilding efforts.
Building a Peacekeeping-ready Civilian Force
The fruits of this collaboration were evident on September 24, 2024, when the FSA and EASF successfully conducted a Pledged Capabilities Verification Exercise in Nairobi. This milestone event, presided over by the AU and the EASF Secretariat’s verification team, led by the Force Commander from Ethiopia, confirmed the mission readiness of Kenya’s civilian peacekeeping personnel. The Academy takes immense pride in the verification exercise’s outcomes, which underscore Kenya’s commitment to regional peace and security.
(Photos of the Verification exercise)
Looking Ahead
The Academy is grateful for the continued support and partnership of the EASF and will continue working closely on the postponed Roster Recruitment Exercise, as and when the dates and venue is announced by the Secretariat. This initiative will further strengthen Kenya’s civilian peacekeeping capabilities and bolster the region’s collective response to crises.
Celebrating Achievements
The enduring partnership between the Academy and the EASF exemplifies the power of collaboration in building capacity for peace and stability. Through consistent training and verification exercises, Kenya now boasts a significant pool of mission-ready civilians prepared to contribute to regional and international peacekeeping missions.
The Academy extends its gratitude to the Director of EASF and his team for their unwavering support and commitment. Together, we look forward to advancing shared goals and ensuring the effective deployment of skilled personnel in pursuit of peace and security across the Eastern Africa region.
