4 October 2023
Recently, UNDSS Eritrea held a retreat aimed at improving bonding, contemplating purpose, and motivating action. The retreat covered diverse topics ranging from an overview of UN operations in Eritrea, an analysis of UNDSS Eritrea, humanitarian access, and a discussion on general administrative and operational concerns.
The Principal Security Adviser for Kenya and Eritrea, Mr. Peter Marshall, emphasized during his speech at the retreat that "Security has moved from a traditional concept of ¡®muscle and force' to critical analysis for enhanced decision making." In addition, Mr. Marshall underscored that the UN's objective in Eritrea is to support the country and its citizens in achieving sustainable development, and he stressed the role UNDSS plays in helping UN organizations carry out their primary mandate.
A representative from OCHA also highlighted the constraints and opportunities that UNDSS could explore to support the tracking of missions in the field. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the retreat, Mr. Chuma the UN Resident Coordinator and the Designated Official, extended his appreciation for UNDSS¡¯ continuous support to the UN country team in Eritrea.
Reflecting on the retreat, Field Security Assistant Dawit Array on behalf of other participants expressed, ¡°The retreat provided a learning platform, especially of regional security threats and actionable recommendations to strengthen UNDSS operations in Eritrea.¡± Mr. Bob Ngobi, Area Security Adviser in Eritrea facilitated the session.