How Rwandan peacekeepers are helping South Sudan communities

A Rwandan battalion (RwanBatt1) visited Kapuri Primary School, on the outskirts of South Sudan’s capital, Juba, on Monday, October 14, and engaged in community work activities - clearing bushes, planting fruit trees, and repainting classrooms. The Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) often go beyond their core mandate of maintaining security. Their contributions extend to humanitarian efforts that uplift local communities. While interacting locals, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Ntwali, the RwanBatt-1 Contingent Commander, commended parents for dedication to their children’s education. ALSO READ: Rwandan peacekeepers in South Sudan build school Kapuri Primary School was built by Rwandan peacekeepers after they observed pupils studying under trees and in makeshift classrooms without sanitation facilities. Moved by the situation, the peacekeepers decided to build a proper school. “I would also like to thank the government of South Sudan for fostering strong relations between our countries,” Ntwali said. Ntwali encouraged the pupils to adopt a different positive mindset toward their studies. “To be successful, you must approach learning in an uncommon way,” he advised. ALSO READ: Over 200 Rwanda, South Sudan officers complete joint Police training The school’s construction, which began in September 2014, was a joint effort between the Rwandan battalion, UNICEF, the Rwandan community in South Sudan, and the Kapuri community. The peacekeepers handed over eight classrooms, two staff offices, and washrooms. Col. Kuol Deng, a representative of the South Sudan government, expressed gratitude for Rwanda's continued support, saying, “I am thrilled to join my friends from Rwanda on this fruitful journey. The love between our nations is clear.” Reflecting on Rwanda's 20 years of participation in peacekeeping missions, Rwanda Defence Force Deputy Spokesperson Simon Kabera highlighted the significance of the country's tragic history. “Our involvement in peacekeeping stems from the lessons learned after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” Kabera said, noting that Rwanda’s past informs its commitment to protecting civilians. “Our background makes the protection of civilians a top priority. We understand the importance of standing with communities in times of crisis.” During Monday’s visit, the peacekeepers also donated scholastic materials to Kapuri Primary School. Joseph Tutu, the chairman of Kapuri Nursery and Primary School Parents and Teachers Association, praised the school’s positive impact. “Last year, we had 200 learners, and now we have 541. The support from Rwanda has been a great blessing,” Tutu said.

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How Rwandan peacekeepers are helping South Sudan communities