Rwanda Peacekeepers construct schools during Umuganda in South Sudan

{Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) were joined by members of UN Family (UNMISS and UN Agencies), Rwanda community in South Sudan and Local community in “Umuganda” community work at an on-going construction site of Kapuri Primary School in Northern Bari Payam , Juba. This special Umuganda was conducted on 25 October 2014, as part of United Nations Day celebrations.}

The participants engaged in different construction activities. UN Agencies also donated different scholastic materials to pupils of Kapuri Primary School and the community got free medical services (immunization, HIV Test and mosquito nets).

Simon Kenyi James Baya, the Director of Northern Bari Payam thanked Rwandan Peacekeepers for initiating the construction of the school project to improve learning conditions of pupils. He said that Rwandan peacekeepers and Rwandan community have become more of relatives than just peacekeepers.

Mr David Ochen Lupo, the Head Master of Kapuri Primary School, said that “due to the construction of a Primary School, I hope the name of Rwandans will remain here forever and ever and I believe what they are doing has already created a history for the young generations to come”.

Col Mutara Nkangura, Rwandan Contingent Commander in UNMISS said the community work “Umuganda” has become a viable tool that has led to enormous developmental achievements in Rwanda. He also added that ‘Umuganda’ has become a forum where pertinent social issues are addressed.

Rwandan Peacekeepers initiated the construction of 8 class rooms and 2 rooms for School Staff at Kapuri Primary School after realizing that the school was lacking facilities to accommodate pupils that used to study under the trees.