By: Yusuf M Hasan
BERBERA (Somalilandsun) – The Somaliland Coast Guard is in the second phase of a Sea Rescue and First aids skills training.
The training ongoing at the main Somaliland coast guard base in Berbera is under facilitation by the International Organization for Migration- IOM is set for its 2nd phase that encompasses at sea practical lessons.
The three days of theoretical instructions were brought to a close by force commanding officer Admiral Mohamed Farah Hussein ‘Hiraane’ at a colourful function witnessed by IOM representatives, Sahil regional authorities and Berbera local council members led by their mayor.
“While thanking sponsors of this schooling I wish to stress the importance of imparted knowledge that will go a long way towards enhancing the at sea capabilities of our seamen” said Admiral Hiraane
Urging extra diligence upon his officers during the at sea lessons the Coast Guard Commander said that Somaliland waters are currently the scene of a massive influx of both Yemenis and Somalis residence in Yemen fleeing ongoing strife in the neighbouring country.
IOM is working across Somaliland and Somalia addressing trafficking in persons, sensitizing at-risk populations on HIV and sexual and gender-based violence, and providing vital livelihoods training
Meanwhile Inside Yemen, where rebel Houthis are under aerial bombardment by a Saudi Arabian led military coalition the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as conflict spreads. Eighteen out of 22 governorates are now affected by conflict. “Many of the 250,000 mainly Somali refugees in Yemen are also affected by the conflict.
According to the UNHCR a total of 915 people, including 156 Yemenis, have arrived across the Gulf of Aden, into Somaliland and Puntland.
IOM is working across Somaliland and Somalia addressing trafficking in persons, sensitizing at-risk populations on HIV and sexual and gender-based violence, and providing vital livelihoods training
