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Kinyarwanda
On Friday, April 24, some 315 Rwandan Police peacekeepers, including 65 women, were awarded United Nations (UN) medal of appreciation in Bangui, to recognize their distinguished service under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
The decorated officers constitute two contingents; Rwanda Formed Police Unit One rotation 11 (RWAFPU1-11), Protection Support Unit (PSU1-10) as well as Individual Police Officers (IPO), who serve as Police Advisors.
The officers were honored for their dedication, professionalism, and integrity during an 11-month deployment focused on protecting civilians and supporting stability in the CAR.
The ceremony was presided over by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the Central African Republic (CAR), Valentine Rugwabiza.
It was also attended by Rwanda's ambassador to CAR, Olivier Kayumba, the Rwandan and UNPOL Chief of Operations, Commissioner General Amir Arfaoui.
In her address, Rugwabiza praised the professionalism and resilience of the Rwandan contingents, highlighting their critical role during a particularly sensitive period.
“Your discipline, commitment, and impact have been exemplary,” she said. “I commend the three contingent—RWAFPU1-11, RWAPSU1-10, and the Individual Police Officers—for your remarkable contribution to the implementation of the MINUSCA mandate, especially throughout the 2025–2026 electoral cycle.”
She added that despite significant challenges, including logistical constraints such as the fuel contingency plan, officers continued to deliver on their responsibilities with unwavering dedication.
Speaking at the event, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Bernardin Nsengiyumva, the RWAFPU1-11 contingent commander, expressed appreciation to the MINUSCA leadership, the government of CAR, local residents and other peacekeepers, for their support.
He highlighted key humanitarian activities undertaken, including providing clean water to communities, collaborating with local security institutions, and implementing initiatives to strengthen community cohesion.
Rwanda has been contributing police forces to MINUSCA since 2014, playing a significant role in advancing peace, protecting civilians, and supporting national stability and community development efforts.
