Building State and Local Rescue Capacity in Comoros
The Foundation for Humanitarian Action at Sea (FHAS), in partnership with Cnaem Comores, the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, and the Indian Ocean Commission, implemented a comprehensive search-and-rescue training program in Moroni, Comoros. The multi-phase initiative trained Cnaem Comores operators in SAR coordination covering alert analysis, operational planning, stakeholder coordination, and information sharing. The second phase included Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator training using practical tabletop exercises, such as simulating responses to overdue vessels traveling between Madagascar and Comoros, supported by specialized IORIS software from the European Union CRIMARIO programme to assess situations and establish operational priorities.
Beyond governmental agencies, the program extended to emergency response volunteers, local fishers, and representatives from Croissant Rouge Comorien (Comorian Red Crescent) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Training sessions addressed non-technical skills, maritime safety, water rescue, and first aid, strengthening community-led lifesaving capabilities. By engaging both national SAR authorities and grassroots responders, the initiative is building a more integrated maritime safety architecture across the Western Indian Ocean, enhancing coordination and preparedness for maritime emergencies throughout the Comoros and the wider region.
The Foundation for Humanitarian Action at Sea (FHAS), in partnership with Cnaem Comores, the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, and the Indian Ocean Commission, implemented a comprehensive search-and-rescue training program in Moroni, Comoros. The multi-phase initiative trained Cnaem Comores operators in SAR coordination covering alert analysis, operational planning, stakeholder coordination, and information sharing. The second phase included Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator training using practical tabletop exercises, such as simulating responses to overdue vessels traveling between Madagascar and Comoros, supported by specialized IORIS software from the European Union CRIMARIO programme to assess situations and establish operational priorities.
Beyond governmental agencies, the program extended to emergency response volunteers, local fishers, and representatives from Croissant Rouge Comorien (Comorian Red Crescent) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Training sessions addressed non-technical skills, maritime safety, water rescue, and first aid, strengthening community-led lifesaving capabilities. By engaging both national SAR authorities and grassroots responders, the initiative is building a more integrated maritime safety architecture across the Western Indian Ocean, enhancing coordination and preparedness for maritime emergencies throughout the Comoros and the wider region.