BARBERA(Wajaalenews) Crew members from EU Naval Force flagship, HNLMS Johan de Witt, have trained young officers from the Somaliland Coast Guard off the coast of Berbera. On 23 and 24 April the young officers were invited on board Johan de Witt’s landing craft, and with the assistance of an interpreter, they were given training in navigation, boat handling skills, engine maintenance and first aid.

On April 24th a delegation from EU Naval Force’s sister mission, EUCAP Nestor and local Somaliland authorities visited HNLMS Johan de Witt to view the training.

Speaking about the training, the Dutch warship’s Quartermaster, Jeroen Meijboom, stated ‘The young officers were really keen to learn and interested in why and how we do things. For us it was really good to be able to share our skills.’

On April 25th, another delegation of young officers from the Berbera Coast Guard was invited on board HNLMS Johan de Witt for a meet and greet with crew members. During the visit both nationalities shared their experiences as young officers. The Somaliland officers were impressed with the size of the ship and also learned that when it comes to seamanship, maritime forces, regardless of nationality or size, face the same challenges, whether it be the weather or the need for regular maintenance.