The RWANBATT-1 battalion of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Medal.
The ceremony, presided over by Lieutenant General Humphrey Nyone, Force Commander, recognized the Rwandan peacekeepers’ significant contributions to peace and security in the Central African Republic (CAR).
The RWANBATT-1 contingent, comprising 750 soldiers including 48 women, was deployed in July 2024. Structured into two mechanized, two motorized, one support, and one headquarters company, the battalion executed a range of critical missions. These included safeguarding the Central African President and his family, securing the presidential palace, M’Poko airport, and MINUSCA residences, and protecting civilians in Bangui. The Rwandan peacekeepers also played a vital role in securing sensitive infrastructure, such as electoral material depots, and conducted operations in remote regions like Bambouti, near the South Sudanese border, as confirmed by a MINUSCA statement.
Beyond their military duties, the Rwandan peacekeepers actively engaged in numerous civil-military initiatives. Their humanitarian efforts included donating school supplies, providing financial assistance for schooling, offering free medical consultations, renovating a school, and constructing an administrative building in Haut-Mbomou.
During the ceremony, General Nyone lauded the battalion’s exemplary discipline, courage, and professionalism. Lieutenant Colonel Alphonse Kigenza, the contingent commander, reciprocated by highlighting the strong cooperation maintained with local authorities and the population. He also paid a solemn tribute to a soldier who lost their life during the mission.
TE/Sf/fss/abj/APA