At least 33 female combatants from 15 United Nations Member States, including Uganda, have successfully completed advanced training in peacekeeping and drone operations at the United Nations Regional Service Centre in Entebbe.
The participants undertook the 5th Women’s Outreach Course alongside the Micro Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Remote Pilot and Trainer of Trainers Course, conducted by the United Nations C4ISR Academy for Peace Operations with support from the Government of Canada.
The program, which aims to strengthen women’s participation and leadership in peacekeeping missions, equipped the trainees with modern technological and operational skills, positioning them for deployment in complex environments around the world.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Brigadier General Charity Bainababo, Director of Women Affairs in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), commended the collaboration between Uganda, the United Nations, and development partners in advancing peacekeeping excellence.
“As a proud host nation, Uganda stands at the forefront of global peacekeeping efforts, dedicated to fostering stability and security,” Brig Gen Bainababo said.
“Our commitment is demonstrated through the provision of world-class training facilities and logistical support that ensure peacekeeping personnel are well prepared for deployment in complex environments.”
She hailed the drone pilot course as a major innovation in modern military training, emphasizing the growing role of technology in ensuring mission success and safety.
“Technology now plays a critical role in modern peacekeeping operations. By equipping personnel with these capabilities, we enhance efficiency and ensure the safety of all involved,” she added.
Brig Gen Bainababo thanked the United Nations for its leadership and extended appreciation to the Governments of Canada and Japan for their financial and technical support, reaffirming Uganda’s dedication to peacekeeping and regional security.
“Uganda remains a steadfast partner in global peace and security,” she affirmed.
Pamela Kertland, Consul General of Canada to Uganda, lauded the initiative as a landmark effort in empowering women and promoting gender equality in international peace operations.
“We believe that inclusive peacekeeping is effective peacekeeping, and the Women’s Outreach Course is a shining testimony to this belief,” she said.
“Canada is proud to support this essential initiative, which paves the way for greater representation of women in peace operations across the globe.”
Ambassador Kertland noted that diversity enriches peacekeeping missions and called on participants to lead by example.
“Equality and security go hand in hand,” she said, urging the graduates to use their new skills and leadership to shape the future of peacekeeping.
The training featured expert facilitators including Col Vincent Douniaux (Belgium), Lt Col Hind Jirari (France), Mr. Paulin Djomo Metanhi (Cameroon), and Mr. Emmanuel Ngor, Chief of Regional Technology Service, among others.
