UN commence signal training for female peacekeepers

A group of 39 police and army female officers from 17 countries across the globe including Uganda are undergoing training in signal operations at UN Regional Service Centre (RSCE), Entebbe.

The two weeks United Nations Signals Academy (UNSA) training will strengthen peacekeeping operations by combining practical training for UN contingents and signals experts with the teaching of UN operating procedures, equipment and familiarization with operating in a peacekeeping environment.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of UNSA in Entebbe, Deputy Japanese Ambassador to Uganda Yutaka Nakamura showed commitment by Japan in promoting women emancipation for peacekeeping missions.

"Japan is committed in facilitating women's active role in society and women's empowerment and enhancing global health diplomacy. Supporting women's participation and protecting their rights in the area of Peace and Security. "He said.

Sam Leal from UN Signals Academy in New York urged trainees to take this unique opportunity to leave the course with a spirit of peace and unity of the United Nations.

Trainees speak out

Maureen Akuro a UPDF officer with AMISSOM in Somalia acknowledged that she has faced challenges in operating the latest signal technology while on mission.

"The training will enable us counter the problem of signal interference by enemy threats and curb the long distances we have been moving to provide information to our commanders." She added.