Mine/UXO Clearance

Indigenous Capacity Building

Example: Oman

In the Sultanate of Oman, RONCO is developing a self-sustaining Humanitarian Mine Detection Dog (MDD) Program capable of supporting and enhancing ongoing demining operations throughout the country. In developing this program, RONCO is training Omani personnel how to safely and effectively utilize dogs and manage a MDD program, and is integrating the MDD program into Oman's military demining operations.

As of December 31, 2001, the dogs and handlers have finished their ten-week training program and have been integrated into Oman's demining operations. RONCO personnel are now "fine tuning" the MDD teams and deminer skills, while they conduct live minefield operations. For a better understanding of RONCO's detailed approach in developing training programs and building sustainable, effective local demining programs, RONCO's step-by-step process is outlined below:

• First, RONCO conducted a ten-week training of the Omani medical staff, deminers, dog handlers, and their mine detection dogs.
• Next, over a three-week period additional training ensured that the survey teams and deminers were familiar with RONCO demining operating procedures and made ready for field deployment using MDD technology and safety procedures.
• The trained dog teams were then integrated with the Omani survey/demining teams in live minefields under close monitoring and supervision by RONCO personnel. On the job training in all aspects of the proper use and safety procedures involving mine detecting dogs was emphasized.
• RONCO is now in the process of "fine tuning" the MDD teams and deminer skills in the effective use of MDD technology in live minefields. This is approximately a six-week process.
• Once the teams are able to operate without regular RONCO supervision, the Omani staff will carry out effective field demining under exacting safety standards with limited direct RONCO staff involvement.
• Over the next six weeks, RONCO will conduct final field evaluations of the Omani integrated demining teams and the MDD sets. At the end of this phase, the Omani staff will be certified by RONCO as fully prepared to operate an MDD program in the field.
• Periodic technical assistance and follow-on training consisting of three two-week visits by RONCO specialists to monitor the status of the program, update the MDD capability, and identify requirements for refresher drills and training will complete the Oman Program.