2026 UN Training: Women Ammunition Experts in Africa | UNODA

Strengthening Ammunition Safety: UN Concludes Regional Training for Women Experts in Africa

The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) recently concluded the 2026 UN SaferGuard Regional Training for Women Ammunition Technical Experts in Africa, focused on the International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG). The two-week course, held in Nairobi, Kenya, aimed to bolster the capacity of women professionals working in ammunition safety and security across the continent. This initiative underscores a growing international commitment to reducing the risks associated with unsafe ammunition stockpiles and promoting responsible arms control.

Training Details and Participants

From January 12th to January 23rd, 2026, fifteen women from ten African nations participated in the intensive training program. Represented countries included the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Tunisia. The training was a collaborative effort between UNODA, the Austrian Ministry of Defence, and the Ammunition Management Advisory Team (AMAT), with significant contributions from the Small Arms Survey. The Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi served as the host location for the program.

What are the International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG)?

The International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG) serve as a crucial framework for safe and secure ammunition management. Developed through international collaboration, the IATG provides a comprehensive set of standards and best practices covering the entire lifecycle of ammunition – from procurement and storage to handling, transportation, and disposal. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for minimizing the risk of accidental explosions, diversion of ammunition to illicit markets, and other safety hazards. You can find more information about the IATG on the UNODA website.

Curriculum and Training Methodology

The training program employed a blended learning approach, combining classroom instruction with practical exercises and group work. Participants engaged with key aspects of safe ammunition management, including comprehensive risk assessment procedures, detailed surveillance and proofing techniques, thorough explosive storehouse assessments, and safety-driven decision-making protocols. The curriculum was designed to equip participants with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to effectively manage ammunition safety within their respective national contexts.

Beyond Technical Skills: A Wider Regional Impact

Officials emphasized that the program’s impact extends beyond simply enhancing individual technical capabilities. By empowering women professionals to take leadership roles in ammunition safety, the initiative directly contributes to reducing the dangers posed by unplanned explosions, the diversion of ammunition, and the presence of unsafe stockpiles. This, in turn, supports national authorities in fulfilling their international obligations related to arms control and risk mitigation. A similar training program was held in 2025, demonstrating a continued commitment to this important work, as noted in a UNODA update from July 28, 2025.

The Importance of Gender Inclusion in Ammunition Management

The focus on women ammunition technical experts is a deliberate and significant aspect of the UN SaferGuard program. Historically, the field of ammunition management has been largely male-dominated. Increasing the representation of women in these roles brings diverse perspectives and expertise to the table, leading to more effective and comprehensive safety practices. This aligns with broader UN efforts to promote gender equality and empower women in all areas of peace and security. The program also received support and recognition on social media, as highlighted in a post from UN Disarmament on January 14, 2026, showcasing the collaborative nature of the initiative with organizations like IPSTC Kenya, GICHD, and the Small Arms Survey.

What Happens Next?

The UNODA continues to support national authorities in implementing the IATG and strengthening their ammunition management capacities. Follow-up activities are planned to provide ongoing mentorship and support to the trained women experts, fostering a network of professionals dedicated to ammunition safety across Africa. Further regional training programs are anticipated in the future, building on the success of the 2026 initiative and expanding its reach to more countries and participants. The long-term goal is to create a sustainable and robust system for safe ammunition management throughout the continent, contributing to greater peace and security for all.