Rwandan peacekeepers (RWABATT-1) under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) were on Wednesday, February 12, decorated with UN service medals in recognition for their service in peacekeeping operations. The ceremony was held in RWABATT-1 Headquarters, at the UN Tomping Base Camp at Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
The UNMISS Force Commander, Lt Gen Mohan Subramanian, who presided over the medal awarding ceremony, thanked the Government of Rwanda for its key contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and commended Rwandan peacekeepers for their discipline and dedication while performing their duties.
He highlighted that Rwandan peacekeepers are the largest peacekeeping contingent in South Sudan and therefore the backbone of the UNMISS.
Brig Gen William Ryarasa, the Sector Unit Commander and Rwanda Senior National Representative in South Sudan, said that RWABATT-1 successfully carried out various operations that contributed to security and stability in their area of responsibility. The activities include patrols to liaise with local security forces, monitoring human rights situations, and gathering critical information for the protection of civilians.
RWABATT-1 ensured the security of the UN Tomping and Torit Company Operating Base Camp, and safeguarded key installations and personnel.
They also conducted community activities aimed at promoting cleanliness, health and education such as provision of medical services to the local community, provision of scholastic and hygiene materials to students and planting of trees and cleaning, among others.
Lt Col Emmanuel Ntwali, the RWABATT-1 Contingent Commander, said that the event was a milestone for the peacekeepers who have now completed 11 months fulfilling their duties under UNMISS. He added that medal decorations play a crucial role in raising UN Peacekeepers’ motivation and morale.
Ntwali appreciated the support rendered by the UNMISS leadership, the Government of South Sudan and friendly contingents in accomplishing the mandated tasks.
The ceremony was marked by parade demonstration, medal pinning and cultural dance performance. It was attended by peacekeepers from different nations under UNMISS, South Sudan senior military officials and other guests.
