DARFUR - A Rwandan Battalion, referred to as Rwanbatt 19 (73 Infantry BN), currently deployed in the AU-UN hybrid mission in Darfur (UNAMID) held a medal award ceremony for its women and men on Thursday.

During the ceremony, Force Commander Lt. Gen. Patrick Nyamvumba recognized the commitment of Rwanbatt 19 for their work and peace efforts they continue to demonstrate while discharging their mandated tasks in Darfur.

"Your contribution is exhibited by the relationship you have created with the neighbouring communities and secure environment you continue to provide especially in North Darfur,” Lt. Gen. Nyamvumba noted.

"Your work is greatly valued by all UNAMID members and Sudanese, especially Darfurians, who are the main beneficiaries of your peacekeeping duties.”

The ceremony held at the Rwandan UNAMID camp in Zamzam, El Fasher, was presided over by others including Sector North Commander, Brig. Gen. Hassen Mussa, the Sudanese government’s Military Representative, Brig. Gen. Essam Alden Kamel and other senior UNAMID dignitaries.

The Force Commander further said that he was delighted for Rwanda’s full commitment in bringing peace and stability to Darfur. 

Gen. Nyamvumba urged the decorated peacekeepers to redouble their efforts to work for humanity and a peaceful environment in Darfur.

"Your future endeavours should always put the AU, UN and our country flags at such a height that the world should remember you through your commitment, devotion and sacrifice,” he continued.

"Even though your devotion and sacrifice have been excellent, you should spare no efforts to protect against attacks targeting UNAMID personnel and facilities. Remember, first and foremost that a good peacekeeper is a good soldier. You should not allow spoilers to derail our achievements”.

The Force Commander also took time to remember fallen peacekeepers and, acknowledged the sacrifice of all bereaved families.

The Commanding Officer Rwanbatt 19, who is also the Rwandan Contingent Commander, Col. Chris Murari, reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to world peace.

"Today’s ceremony symbolized an addition of yet another accomplishment in Rwanda’s successful peacekeeping history. The nation’s immense contributions to sub–regional, continental as well as world peace in general, and United Nations peace operations in particular, needs no over-emphasis,” said Col. Murari.

He added that "the joy of every professional is often derived from service like this, and for us, we deem it a great privilege to serve here in Darfur with some of the finest people in the world.”

Col. Murari reminded the women and men of Rwanbatt 19 to always uphold the RDF core values - honour, patriotism and valour, which he stressed, "reverently dictate who we are.”

UNAMID medals are issued in recognition of the peacekeepers who have served for not less than 90 days.

Ends