Mogadishu, 21 March 2025: The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in Somalia today expressed its sincere gratitude to the People and Government of Japan for its generous contribution of USD 300,000 to the "Strengthening Explosive Threat Mitigation Capacities to Promote Peace and Security in Somalia" project. This critical funding enables UNMAS to enhance the capacity of the Somali Police Force (SPF) to address the ongoing threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and explosive ordnance contamination.
The project, which builds upon previous successful collaborations between UNMAS and the Government of Japan, focuses on training and equipping SPF personnel, including a specialized Training of Trainers (ToT) program, upgrading existing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams to full IED Disposal (IEDD) capability, and implementing an IED risk education component to improve community safety.
"The Government of Japan's strong partnership continues to save innocent lives here in Somalia" said Fran O’Grady, Chief UNMAS Somalia, who added "this funding will significantly strengthen the SPF's ability to independently manage explosive threats, protect civilians, and contribute to long-term stability in the region."
The project's activities are designed to support Somalia's peacebuilding and stabilization efforts, particularly during the critical transition of security responsibilities. By enhancing the SPF EOD capabilities, the project will help create a safer environment for Somali citizens, humanitarian operations, and socioeconomic recovery.
UNMAS Somalia remains committed to working closely with the SPF and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this project and achieve its intended outcomes. The organization extends its deepest appreciation to the Government of Japan for its unwavering support and dedication to human security in Somalia.
For further information, please contact:
UNMAS
- Mr. Fran O’Grady, Chief UNMAS Somalia, Mogadishu, francis.ogrady@un.org
Embassy of Japan
- Ms. Yuko Onza, Embassy of Japan to Kenya, Nairobi, yuko.onza@mofa.go.jp
About UNMAS:
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in Somalia is a component of the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) and the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS). It provides essential IED threat mitigation initiatives to support the successful transfer of security responsibilities while ensuring alignment with the Somalia Security Sector Development Plan.
About the Government of Japan:
The Government of Japan is a key donor of UNMAS efforts in Somalia and a strong advocate for human security. Japan's support has been instrumental in training and equipping SPF EOD teams, developing infrastructure, and promoting gender inclusivity in security operations.