Sixteen embarked shipriders, from both the Tanzanian and Mozambican navies, graduated in an official ceremony held aboard Africa Partnership Station (APS) East platform USS Nicholas (FFG 47), February 10, 2010.

Aboard the ship for over two weeks, the trainees spent their time not only learning basic watchstanding principles, leadership skills, damage control and engineering, but also building relationships with sailors from around the globe.

"We were partnered with U.S. sailors on the ship who we called our running mates," said Tanzanian Navy Lieutenant Fatuma Yahaya Mnekano. "We worked one-on-one to learn new things and whenever I had a question, he was right there to help me understand it."

The working relationships are an essential part to building partnerships and maritime security in east Africa, training officer, Lieutenant junior grade Beryl Stefanic said.

"I believe this program is a great way to build relationships, because these trainees were taken out of their normal environments and placed [in a situation] where they had to make friendships in order to work together," said Stefanic. "I hope that once they go back home they will remember what they've done here and can apply it within their navy."

APS is a worldwide initiative in support of Naval Forces Africa which aims to unite international partners to enhance maritime safety and security throughout the African continent.

Swift and Nicholas are on regular scheduled deployments within the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. APS East is being conducted in cooperation with Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa.