Rwandan peacekeepers under the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNAMID) on Saturday handed over a school they constructed for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in El Fasher town in the Darfur region.
Rwandan peacekeepers under the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNAMID) on Saturday handed over a school they constructed for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in El Fasher town in the Darfur region.The facility built by the peacekeepers under the Rwanda Defence Forces 73 Infantry Battalion (Rwanbatt 47), consists three classrooms and administrative office, according to a statement.
The construction of the girls’ secondary school was initiated in conjunction with UNAMID Christian Fellowship who said they chose the Rwandan peacekeepers as partners because of their record in implementing quick impact projects.Prof Yousuf Isaac Ahmed, the Darfur Education State Minister who presided over the ceremony expressed his gratitude to Rwanbatt 47 for the job well done, which he said was in addition to two classrooms and one office constructed last year by their predecessors, the Rwanbatt44.
"This is the second time I attend this event; before I was at Umkadada locality to celebrate the same programme of a school fence constructed at Noor Salaam girl’s primary school," he is quoted as saying. He further said that, "I would like to have an official day designated as intercultural day between us and Rwandans every year, so as to honor your great contribution and assistance to our people. This will be a good occasion to celebrate and promote our good relations.”
On behalf of the UNAMID leadership, the Force Commander, Lt Gen Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, commended the contribution by Rwanbatt47 and pledged continued participation in such projects from those that will relieve the battalion.
The representative of Salaam IDP Camp, Khalil Sheik Khadin, thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers and Rwanda in particular, for contribution and assistance.
"Your contribution and assistance to our people is an historical act, you make a difference with your fellow peacekeepers here from other countries, we wish them to learn from your particular programme," he said.The event was attended by high ranking officials from the Government, UNAMID, Peacekeepers and local communities.
Rwanda has maintained peacekeepers in Sudan for over a decade and besides working towards restoring peace in the war ravaged region, they have been commended for their community outreach activities over the years.
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