Somali National Army soldiers will receive training and equipment to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs) thanks to a deal between Ministry of Defence (MoD) and UK based company.
According to sources, ISSEE, a British firm specialising in demining and counter-terrorism training, equipment, and advice will help Somali military to tackle the IED hazard that has killed many security forces and civilians.
The award of the contract comes less than a month after British Ministry of Defense announced plans to double the number of Somali National Army soldiers it trains in infantry skills.
A British force of 26 is involved in training Somalia’s army in marksmanship, patrolling, medical aid and techniques to counter improvised explosive devices to fight Al-Shabaab and other rebel groups within the country.
The plans call for a total of about 1,000 troops to complete the eight-week course of training.
“[Britain] and our Armed Forces will continue to support Somalia, with plans to double the number of troops trained under this scheme in 2021,” British Armed Forces Minister James Heappey said.
The UK has recently announced a new support package for Somalia worth £21.8 million, including £1.6 million to counter the threat from roadside bombs, and a further £3.37 million for the Somali Security Forces engaged in joint operations with the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM).
