Rwandan peace keepers in Sudan’s western region of Darfur joined other Rwandans to celebrate the golden jubilee of the country’s independence, on Sunday.Rwanda has a contingent of over 3,200 troops deployed in Sudan’s war ravaged west, under the AU-UN Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID).The “colourful ceremony” was marked by a parade and a martial arts display by officers and men of Rwanbat 33 which is based at the UNAMID headquarters in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.A statement sent to The New Times says, Mohammed B Yonis, UNAMID Deputy Joint Special Representative, who was the chief guest, congratulated the people of Rwanda for their courage and ability to rise from their difficult past.“The sacrifices that Rwanda has made in peacekeeping are historic and monumental,” Yonis is quoted saying.Speaking on behalf of the Rwandan community in Darfur, the UNAMID Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Patrick Nyamvumba, emphasised that “Rwanda’s 50th Anniversary of Independence is a time for celebration but also a time for reflection.”“It is a time to reflect on our journey towards real independence; draw lessons from our past failures, get inspiration from our many achievements and strengthen our resolve to attain our vision of a united, prosperous and dignified nation.”The event was attended by many Rwandan military, police and civilians working in Darfur and other UNAMID staff and Sudanese officials from El Fasher.
