The Rwanda Formed Police Unit (FPU1) contingent, serving under the United Nations Multi-dimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (Minusma), has launched a food security awareness programme in the West African country.

The launch took place in the northern city of Gao, the contingent base. The exercise also aimed at encouraging Minusma and local security institutions to engage in various initiatives to assist vulnerable communities.

The exercise was marked with the donation of bottled clean water to vulnerable families of Soso Koira and Aljanabandja, the quarters of Gao city.

The Rwandan peacekeepers alone donated over 21,000 liters of clean water.

About 90 per cent of Gao residents face extreme water shortage following the recent instability in the northern parts of Mali which destroyed infrastructures, including water tanks and pipes.

"We are introducing these community policing activities to engage everyone to cooperate in solving problems affecting locals,” Chief Supt. Bértin Mutezintare, the Rwanda FPU contingent Commander, said.

The event was also attended by army and police peacekeeping forces in Mali, local security institutions, authorities and residents. Locals pledged to support it for the good of the community.