30 April 2023
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has long been synonymous with complex security challenges, characterized by periods of political unrest, armed conflict, and a humanitarian crisis that demand a flexible and comprehensive approach to safety. As the operating environment evolves, the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) recognizes the paramount importance of security training for UN personnel, in particular for field staff. Comprehensive and adaptive training empowers professionals to navigate these uncertain terrains more effectively, significantly mitigating risks and thereby enabling them to reach population in need.
The UNDSS Safe and Secure Approaches in Field Environments (SSAFE) training is a three-day in-person program that offers participants the fundamental knowledge and skills required to face the security challenges of field environments. The first two days of the training focus on critical areas such as First Aid, Fire Safety, vehicle movements, dealing with Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), Radio Communication, and Stress Management. The third day features practical exercises, where security incidents are simulated in various settings and participants have the opportunity to apply their newfound knowledge in real-time. UNDSS Field Security Associate and certified SSAFE trainer, Mr. Dada Kababa-Muyongo notes that "A significant part of the training involves practical simulation exercises in various terrains such as the field and forest. This helps inculcate a realistic sense of emergency and provides hands-on experience to the trainees,"
In the DRC, UNDSS has resumed in-person SSAFE training following a temporary suspension due to COVID- 19. Courses are held on a bi-weekly basis in Kinshasa, as well arranged frequently in field duty stations depending on operational requirements. Mr. Kababa-Muyongo admits that the intensive training schedule puts a lot of pressure on resources, and strain on the security section, but he underlines paramount importance of the training for humanitarian response. “During the last training session I delivered in Kinshasa from 26-28 April 2023, we certified 31 UN staff members of which 12 women, who now have the necessary skill set to safely participate in deep field missions. Knowing that my work as a trainer not only helps keeping our colleagues safe, but also enables them to assist population in need is what really motivates me.”