Mali Nicolas Berthon

For my first CTG contract I was recruited as a Training Officer in Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED). My role was to be deployed in sub-regions, such as Togo, Chad, Senegal and Guinea, to train teams in C-IED. The opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with the military for their future deployment was incredibly motivating.

I was then promoted to Team Leader. I was in charge of a project that resulted in the construction of a protection system against mortars and rockets, as well as its management, with my team of specialists. I’m also responsible for all the Electronics and Communications System Management (ECMs) that equip the mission’s Explosive Ordnance Disposals (EODs).

A motivating moment for me was on 8 June 2017. I was in charge of giving the alert during an attack before the impact of the projectiles.  All the people in the camp, including 50 people who were in the prayer room at that time, were refugees. One of the mortars exploded in the prayer room and completely destroyed it. All these people would have been killed or seriously injured if I didn’t alert them in time. I feel very proud to have helped prevent this and many other attacks like this.

I think that by employing competent people that are always ready for challenges, CTG has earned a solid reputation. At my small level, I think that the motivation and the positive attitude we put in to our work makes the difference. The conditions are difficult sometimes but with a lot of patience and perseverance, the work we do will help to create a solid foundation to restore Mali’s stability and lasting peace.

The work that I have done and the materials that I am responsible for directly protects all personnel against Mortars, Rockets and Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Devices (RCIED). My work has already had a direct impact on many people. I’m proud to go to work knowing that I’m saving lives.