From the 11^th to 13^th May 2018, Italian sailors and marines from the EU NAVFOR flagship, ITS Margottini worked with members of the Galmudug Coast Guard.

This essential training for the members of the local Somali law enforcement agencies enables the people of Somalia to take control of their own waters and build confidence in the international communities that piracy will remain repressed.

The training was followed up with a visit on board Margottini by Mr. Mohamed Adan (Qalabxoor), Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport and Mr. Abdullahi Ahmed Ali, Mayor of Hobyo.

The training, which included theory and practical exercises on seamanship principles, use of lifejackets, sea safety, first aid, basic fire-fighting, damage control and use of fire extinguishers was well appreciated by all those taking part.

Regular training exercises such as these help to develop local capabilities and is essential to maintain the successful counter-piracy mission that Operation Atalanta has become.