EASF Participates in Save the Children Workshop

The Eastern Africa Standby Force took part in a "Save the Children" workshop which ran from 10th to 13th September 2019 at the Speke Resort in Munyonyo, Uganda.

The workshop, which was officially opened by Brig. Gen. James Ruhesi of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs from Republic of Uganda, aimed at reflecting on current mechanisms under the entire scope of Peace Support Operations (PSOs) which seek to address violations of children in armed conflicts.

Representing the Standby Force at the workshop was the outgoing Head of Civilian Component, Mr. Steve Lalande. In his keynote speech, Mr. Lalande applauded the contributions made by Save the Children towards protecting future generations all over the world. He underscored the importance of procedural approaches in PSO deployments which should be guided by existing mechanisms; one such criterion is the accomplishment of extensive trainings in the field of child protection.

Mr. Lalande's diplomatic skills at the EASF Secretariat during his tenure saw the Civilian Component bring on board Save the Children as a strategic partner in addressing issues related to children in conflict situations. He established an on-line resource center for academicians and research personnel who are interested in matters of peace and security. Owing to his exemplary leadership traits, EASF's Civilian Component is now leading all five regions on the African Continent in contributing civilian personnel who could be deployed in future, to African Union's civilian standby roster.

This was the last workshop that Mr. Lalande presided over as the EASF Head of Civilian Component.

Below: UPDF's Deputy Head of Civil Military Coordination (CIMIC) Colonel Henry Ahebwa Presents a Gift to the Outgoing Head of Civilian Component Mr. Steve Lalande