Shire Abdi

Djibouti – Djibouti has hosted a large-scale maritime rescue drill aimed at training emergency teams in saving people involved in sea accidents. The exercise, held along the Djiboutian coastline, is part of the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance rapid response capabilities and address the risks faced by individuals in capsized boats, according to the Djiboutian authorities.

The event, attended by various officials, was led by the Djiboutian Minister of Health. The training exercise was organized in collaboration with Djibouti University and international rescue organizations, particularly French maritime rescue teams with extensive expertise in sea survival operations.

During the exercise, rescue procedures were tested, from on-site emergency response to medical care for rescued individuals. Demonstrations included modern techniques for saving passengers from a capsized vessel. A total of 30 people were rescued and transported to medical facilities for immediate treatment during the drill.

The exercise involved various government agencies, including the coast guard, gendarmerie, military forces, and health services. Speaking at the event, the Minister of Health emphasized the importance of this initiative for Djibouti, given its strategic location along vital maritime routes.

“Disasters do not discriminate, nor do they follow a fixed timeline. Therefore, we must be prepared for any situation. We stand united and are committed to strengthening these training programs to ensure that society can respond rapidly to emergencies,” the Minister of Health stated.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Djibouti City, Abdi Sikiye Qayaad, who also attended the exercise, expressed gratitude to all participating organizations, particularly the coast guard, gendarmerie, and health units, for their essential role in the drill.

The rescue drill is expected to enhance the capabilities of Djibouti’s emergency response units, enabling them to respond effectively to maritime incidents and save lives at sea.

Djibouti has frequently witnessed maritime incidents along its shores, including cases of human trafficking and commercial shipwrecks, making such preparedness exercises crucial for safeguarding lives and maintaining safety along its coastline.