Rwandan Police peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), yesterday, extended medical services to residents in the capital Bangui. Over 400 residents received free medical check ups, malaria drugs and deworming tablets mainly to children. The health activity was in line with several other human security activities that Rwandan peacekeepers engaged in in various peacekeeping missions where they are deployed. The exercise was also attended by top MINUSCA and senior government officials. In his address, Major Gen. Muhammed Selloum, the Commander of Joint Task Forces in Bangui (JTFB), who presided over event, thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for going beyond usual peacekeeping duties to give healthcare to the people. “Forces under the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Central Africa have a supreme mandate to protect residents from physical attacks and other social needs including health issues,” Major. Gen. Selloum said. The vice Mayor of the 8th District in Bangui, Andre Ndemangou also lauded Rwandan peacekeepers for reaching out to residents to help them access the medical services. “Malaria and worms among children are among the common disease here. On behalf of residents in this district, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the love that you continue to show the people of CAR,” said Ndemangou. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sam Rumanzi, who spoke on behalf of Rwandan peacekeepers, observed that “physical security goes handy with health security.” “You may yield less achievements protecting public from physical attacks while it appears that, the very people you are mandated to protect are on the other hand dying of diseases,” ACP Rumanzi said. “This is what compels Rwandans to put health alongside physical security,” he added. “We are also implementing Minusca mandate of protecting civilians.” Currently, Rwanda maintains three contingents; two Formed Police Units (FPUs) and a Protection Support Unit (PSU) each composed of 140 officers, as well as Individual Police Officers, who serve as advisors and mentors. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
