RDF Peacekeepers in Darfur Decorated

{{Rwandan battalion (Rwanbatt33), 71 Infantry battalion of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) serving under African Union-United Nations hybrid mission in Darfur (UNAMID) held medal award ceremony on 13 December 2012 in El Fasher, Sudan. }}

This comes after 7 months serving professionally the UNAMID.

The UNAMID Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Patrick Nyamvumba who was the Guest of Honor in a colourful ceremony commended the commitment and professionalism of Rwandan peacekeepers;

” your commitment to UNAMID and professionalism which you have always demonstrated is a source of pride to us and indeed your country Rwanda.”

Lt Gen Patrick Nyamvumba congratulated each and every soldier peacekeeper for the great role played in bringing UNAMID operations effective.

“Your personal experiences as Rwandan have also prepared you for Darfur and it is with pleasure and satisfaction, that I acknowledge the important role that each one of you has played to underpin UNAMID’s operational effectiveness.

You have indeed followed the Rwandan tradition of serving humanity”; emphasized the UNAMID Force Commander.

He also thanked the Government of Rwanda for promoting peace in Darfur.

“Your deployment to Darfur would not have been possible without the commitment and cooperation of the Government of Rwanda.

I therefore wish to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for releasing you to serve the United Nations and the African Union in search for durable peace in Darfur”.

Col Eugene NKUBITO, the Rwandan Contingent Commander said that Rwanbatt33 contributed immensely to the protection of civilians through its patrols and robust operations.

He added that the battalion completed two Quick Impact Projects (schools) for Abushouk Internal Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp.

The Force Commander hailed these projects for the development of Darfurians as well as its role in maintaining good relations between the Force and local community.

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