Rwandan officer named head of UN force in Ivory Coast

The United Nations has appointed a Rwandan Commissioner of Police Vianney Nshimiyimana, as its Police Commissioner for the United Nations Operation in Ivory Coast (Unoci). Nshimiyimana, who has been the commandant of the National Police College (NPC) in Musanze, left for the West African nation yesterday to take up his new assignment. The father of four was appointed due to his professionalism and immense experience in peacekeeping, according to a statement from Police. He will be heading the police component for one year, but renewable. “This is yet another demonstration of the trust the international community has in Rwanda; I will work to uphold that reputation,” Nshimiyimana said. He thanked government and the Rwanda National Police, in particular, which helped him to be a competitive officer who can help bring about peace in other countries. Among his plans during the mission spell, he said, is to bring positive reforms in the security sector, civilian protection, oversee the disarmament process and to help develop the capacity of the Ivorian Police Force. Mission experience The former Political Commissar, who was part of the third battalion that was deployed at the parliamentary building to protect VIPs during the liberation struggle, has vast peacekeeping experience and various academic and professional courses under his name. In 2012, he headed a Rwanda Contingent (Correctional, Individual and FPU officers) under the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti. He was also the contingent Commander of the Rwandan Police Peacekeepers under the United Nations Mission in Liberia in 2008. Rwandan peacekeepers have been recognised on the international scene for their professionalism and commitment in executing their duties. Rwanda maintains about 600 police officers in eight missions, including Haiti, Sudan, South Sudan, Liberia, Mali and Ivory Coast. The Rwandan contingent in Mali has been vital in protecting VIPs. Between February 1 and 3, the Rwandan contingent in Mali was tasked to protect diplomats and members of the UN Security Council during their visit to Mali.