MASHARIKI SALAM 2013

Exercise “MASHARIKI SALAM 2013” was a multi-dimensional Field Training Exercise (FTX) set to test EASF on its path towards Full Operational Capability (FOC) by 2015. FTX 2013 was conducted from 19th – 25th May 2013 in Jinja, Uganda with 1,290 participants (military, police, and civilian). 

It was a great opportunity for the EASF to enhance the understanding and practice of multidimensional/multinational Peace Support Operation (PSO) concepts and improve the interoperability of its forces.

FTX “ Mashariki Salam 2013” aimed at training and testing the EASF forces on the level of their readiness for Full Operational Capability (FOC) based on the African Union training Doctrine and objectives.  Exercise “Mashariki Salam” was designed to address gaps identified during the previous exercises and to consolidate gains so far made.

EASF adopted the code name “Mashariki Salam” for the Exercise. This was agreed to be a representative expression in most official languages of the Member States.  ‘Mashariki’ is a Kiswahiili word for Eastern, while ‘Salam’ is Peace in many of the languages in the Region.  

The code name was further complemented by the theme of the Exercise: Bringing Peace to Africa.

EASF completed the first cycle of Exercises by conducting a successful Command Post Exercise (CPX) in Nairobi, Kenya in 2008, a Field Training Exercise (FTX) in Djibouti in November 2009 and a Logistics Mapping Exercise (LogMAPEX) in November 2010 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.  Upon completion of this first cycle, EASF attained the Initial Operational Capability (IOC).

In the second cycle, EASF conducted a second CPX in Khartoum, Sudan in November 2011. Mashariki Salam was the second FTX with the following broad objectives:

1. Train and test EASF’s ability to generate forces, plan, deploy, execute, sustain and recover a multi-dimensional AU mandated Scenario 5 mission;
2. Exercise EASF doctrine and procedures that need to be in place by FOC;
3. Improve the cooperation and interoperability of components and equipment within EASF;
4. Enhance awareness of EASF within the Region; and
5. Maintain and enhance regional cohesion and co-operation.

Photo Gallery: Field Training Exercise 2013 in Jinja, Uganda