The President of the Central African Republic Faustin Archange Touadera on Thursday awarded Rwandan peace keepers (Rwanbatt7) serving under United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission with the country’s Recognition Medal for their contribution to ensure recent peaceful elections.

The event was held at the office of the President also known as Palais de la Renaissance, in presence of various dignitaries.

Rwanbatt7 Commanding Officer was decorated with "Grade de Commandeur”; senior Officers received "Grade d’Officiers”, junior Officers were decorated with "Grade de Chevalier”  while other ranks were decorated with "Grade de Etoile du Mérite Militaire”

In his remarks, the head of state lauded Rwanda and MINUSCA for their efforts in bringing peace and stability in the country.

"I would particularly like to pay tribute to the courage of Rwandan peacekeepers and MINUSCA in general who have fulfilled their duty to the point of supreme sacrifice for the cause of peace. The population of CAR recognizes the efforts made to restore peace and security in our country.”

On behalf of Rwandan Contingent, the Unit Commander, Lt Col Jean Bosco Safari thanked the President for the recognition of Rwanbatt7 contribution and also thanked the MINUSCA leadership for their full support in fulfilling their mission.

The Rwandan peacekeepers, who were decorated on Thursday were deployed to CAR on March 6 2020.

They conducted various operations including protecting the Head of State, securing strategic sites in the capital city, Bangui and contributed to ensuring security during recent elections held in the country, the Ministry of Defense said in a statement.