Rwandan peacekeepers, serving as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), were recognized for their exceptional dedication to peacekeeping operations in the Central African nation. The commendation came in the form of UN medals awarded to members of the Rwandan contingent, Rwanbatt-12, on May 9, as stated by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
MINUSCA’s official channel, identified as X handle, noted that the Rwandan contingent honored on May 9 consists of 750 peacekeepers, including 36 women. The ceremony unfolded at the headquarters of Rwanbatt-12 situated at the Socatel M’poko base camp in Bangui, the capital of the CAR.
The event was overseen by Valentine Rugwabiza, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of MINUSCA. In her remarks, Rugwabiza conveyed appreciation for the substantial contributions made by Rwandan peacekeepers in upholding peace and stability in the Central African Republic. She emphasized the significance of their service to both the mission and the people of CAR, acknowledging their steadfast dedication and professionalism in fulfilling the UN peacekeeping mandate.
Lt Col Joseph Gatabazi, the Commanding Officer of Rwanbatt-12, expressed gratitude for the assistance and guidance provided by MINUSCA leadership and other stakeholders, which enabled the contingent to execute their mission effectively. He encouraged all Rwandan peacekeepers to maintain their dedicated efforts for the remaining duration of their deployment.
The ceremony attracted a diverse array of attendees, including CAR government officials, Olivier Kayumba, the Head of the Rwandan Diplomatic Mission in CAR, and members of the Rwandan community in CAR, among others.
This recognition marks another instance of Rwandan peacekeepers in CAR being honored with UN service medals. According to information from RDF, Rwandan troops were first deployed to CAR in January 2014. As of November 24, 2023, Rwanda had over 2,000 soldiers serving in CAR under the UN Peacekeeping mission. Additionally, Rwanda maintains a deployment of over 1,000 soldiers in CAR under a bilateral agreement.
