Role of Civilian Police (CIVPOL) Training in Enhancing Operational Efficiency: A Comparative study of AMISOM and UN Missions in Mali

Abstract

There remains a significant gap in understanding the impact of CIVPOL’s training programs
on the operational efficiency of peacekeeping missions in Africa. Therefore, this study sought
to examine the role of CIVPOL training in improving the operational efficiency of
peacekeeping missions using a comparative study of MINUSMA and AMISOM. The study
used institutional theory (INT) as its theoretical framework. The study used the convergent
parallel mixed method design. The study was based in Somalia and Mali. The study’s target
population was obtained from Somalia and Mali and included: CIVPOL officers; local police
officers trained by CIVPOL; senior lecturers and professors; representatives from civil
society organizations; representatives from the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping
Operations; and African Standby Force trainers. Both questionnaires and KIIs were used to
gather primary data. The study used purposive sampling to select a sample of 409
respondents. However, the study’s primary data was obtained from 314 (out of 385) complete
questionnaire responses and 24 KIIs. On the other hand, a desk review was used to gather
secondary data from relevant publications. The study analyzed qualitative aspects of the
collected data using content analysis while quantitative aspects were analyzed using
descriptive and inferential statistics. Quantitative results were displayed through pie charts,
tables, and graphs to facilitate data visualization, while qualitative insights were presented
thematically in narrative form. The key findings demonstrated that the general level of
effectiveness delivered by CIVPOL training was very effective with a score of 4 on a 5-point
Likert scale, though there were considerable differences in AMISOM's and UN Mali's
priorities. The local cultural sensitivity is greatly emphasized in the AMISOM training, while
UN missions in Mali tend to stress human rights and legal knowledge. The study also found
that the challenges facing CIVPOL training in both MINUSMA and AMISOM included
resource constraints, cultural insensitivity, lack of local cooperation, training methodology
issues, and communication barriers. Lastly, the study found that a focus on personalized
training programs, resource optimization, enhanced language support, cultural sensitivity
programs, and strengthening local partnerships was consistent with effective mission
outcomes. This study concludes that CIVPOL training plays a crucial role in enhancing the
operational effectiveness of peacekeeping missions in Africa, particularly in MINUSMA and
AMISOM. The study recommended dedicating a budget for CIVPOL training, incorporating,
local cultural training, and developing the language proficiency of CIVPOL’s personnel for
improving CIVPOL training.