EUCAP Somalia: Strengthening Maritime Safety Through Enhanced Radio Communications

The EUCAP Field Office Puntland successfully concluded a Maritime Radio Communications Training for 16 Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) officers, held from 24 August to 3 September 2026. 

The training strengthened participants’ practical skills in maritime radio communications, covering the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), Very High Frequency (VHF), High Frequency (HF) and Medium Frequency (MF) radio systems, Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs), NAVTEX, and distress, urgency and safety procedures, alongside relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Through practical VHF exercises, participants applied standard communication procedures in routine and emergency scenarios. All 16 officers received the Short-Range Certificate (SRC), demonstrating competence in maritime VHF radio communications and contributing to stronger operational readiness for maritime safety and security in Puntland.

Speaking at the end of the training, trainee Khadar shared his experience: “The training improved my confidence in using VHF radio communications and responding correctly to safety, urgency, and distress communications. These skills will help me communicate and coordinate more effectively during routine operations and, especially, in emergency and search and rescue situations.”