Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have been awarded United Nations medals in recognition of their outstanding contribution to peacekeeping efforts.
The medal award ceremony was held at the UNMISS Headquarters in Tomping, Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
The event was presided over by Robert Yaw Affram, Deputy Force Commander of UNMISS, who described the medal as a powerful symbol of dedication and professional excellence.
“The UN medal you receive today represents professionalism, discipline, commitment, and steadfast dedication to the mission of peacekeeping,” he said. “It reflects long days in challenging environments, nights spent on guard and in various operations, and the courage to remain focused under difficult circumstances. This is a medal that is earned, not simply given.”
Maj. Gen. Affram also expressed appreciation to the Government of Rwanda and the Rwanda Defence Force for consistently deploying well-trained, disciplined, and professional troops to serve under UNMISS.
The Commanding Officer of Rwanbatt-1, Lt. Col. Paul Ndushabandi, commended the soldiers for their resilience, bravery, and commitment throughout the ten months they have served in the mission area.
“I encourage Rwanbatt-1 to maintain this momentum during the remainder of the deployment,” he said. “Today’s medal parade marks another significant milestone in our honorable duty to protect humanity.”
The ceremony featured a military parade as well as traditional Rwandan cultural performances presented by Rwanbatt-1 to celebrate the occasion.
Rwanda remains one of the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, including United Nations Mission in South Sudan, playing a key role in efforts to stabilize South Sudan.
