7 Med CBRD Wing Provides Training Support
T
he 7 Medical Battalion Group Chemical Biological Radiological Defence Wing played a vital role in providing training support during the Assistance and Protection course conducted by the Organisation for the Prohibition of
Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in partnership with the South African government through the Council for the Non-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (NPC). This course was held from August 21, 2023, to September 1, 2023, at the Pienaarsrivier Training Base (Ditholo) in Pretoria, aiming to equip 19 instructors from various African States Parties. These instructors are responsible for training first responders in dealing with chemical emergency incidents, including fire brigades, police, military, and emergency medical services. The course covered a wide range of topics, including planning and establishing support teams for civilian protection and defense, rescue and decontamination operations in contaminated areas, and appropriate responses and
countermeasures in the event of incidents involving chemical warfare agents or toxic chemicals. Under the command of Lieutenant Colonel, Q.S.M. Mafa, Acting Chemical Biological Advisor, the Chemical Biological and Radiological Defence Wing of the 7 Medical Battalion Group provided essential support, including qualified instructors and equipment, and conducted both theoretical and practical training sessions. On August 31, 2023, Major General Mphikeleli Simelane, Chief Director of Military Health Force Preparation, paid a visit to the OPCW course during its final phase of practical evaluation. During his visit, General Simelane extended his congratulations to all course participants, emphasizing that dedication and determination make everything possible. He also acknowledged the exemplary discipline and professionalism displayed by the 7 Medical Battalion Group Unit throughout the course. In his parting words, General Simelane offered well wishes to the departing students, urging them to implement the knowledge and methods they have acquired for the benefit of their respective nations.
7 Med Bn Gp CBRD Instructors in action during the final phase of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons course at Ditholo Training Base.
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Participating States Parties will benefit from this course by enhancing the abilities and skills of their national instructors, enabling them to better train first responders in providing protection against chemical weapons and toxic chemicals while effectively managing chemical incidents.
Article by Capt Thabo Tukula Photographs by Sgt Jonathan Mogano
