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Kinyarwanda
On Thursday, May 7, 160 officers from Rwanda Formed Police Unit One-Ten (RWAFPU 1-10), comprising 32 women and 128 men, were awarded United Nations (UN) medals in recognition of their dedication and outstanding service under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
The medal pinning ceremony was held at the RWAFPU1-10 camp in Malakal, Upper Nile State, where the contingent was deployed 10 months ago to protect civilians.
The medals were presented by the Head of Field Office (HoFo), Malakal, Mr. Alfred Orono, who represented the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG).
In his remarks, Mr. Orono commended the Rwandan Police peacekeepers for their professionalism, resilience and commitment in executing the UNMISS mandate.
“Your dedication and discipline have significantly contributed to the protection of civilians and the maintenance of peace and security in South Sudan. The United Nations highly appreciates your sacrifice and commitment to duty,” Mr. Orono said.
He further acknowledged the contingent’s wide range of operational responsibilities, noting that their contribution played a key role in the successful closure of the Malakal Protection of Civilians (PoC) site.
“The successful closure of the Malakal PoC site remains a remarkable milestone in the peace and stabilization efforts in South Sudan. RWAFPU 1-10 has been instrumental in supporting this achievement through professionalism and effective operational performance,” he added.
During their deployment, RWAFPU 1-10 personnel conducted various duties under UNMISS, including protection of civilians, patrol operations, public order management, escort duties and support to humanitarian activities.
Speaking at the ceremony, the RWAFPU1 contingent commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Corneille Murigo, said the medal award reflects the recognition of the contingent’s noble contribution to international peacekeeping efforts.
He reiterated the commitment of the contingent to continue executing their duties, particularly the protection of civilians, with integrity.
ACP Murigo also urged the officers under his command to continue upholding the values that define the Rwanda National Police.
“Continue to uphold the core values of our country and Rwanda National Police, which define our identity and commitment to humanity. Our history continues to inspire us to stand against anything that threatens human dignity and security,” ACP Murigo added.
He further expressed appreciation to the UNMISS, the people and leadership of South Sudan leadership as well as other peacekeepers, for their support and partnership noting that the cooperation with various components enabled them to effectively accomplish their mission.
Rwanda began deploying Police peacekeepers to South Sudan in 2015 and currently maintains two contingents of over 400 personnel serving in the Capital Juba and Malakal, Upper Nile State.
