Rwandan soldiers serving with the United Nations mission in the Central African Republic have received U.N. medals in recognition of their contribution to peace and security in the country’s volatile eastern regions.
The awards were presented to members of Rwanda’s RWABG VII infantry battalion and the RWAMED X medical contingent, both deployed under the U.N. Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic, known as MINUSCA. The ceremony was held at the RWABG VII base in Bria, in Haute-Kotto prefecture.
Maj. Gen. Maychel Asmi, MINUSCA’s deputy force commander, praised the Rwandan troops for their professionalism, discipline and effectiveness. Rwanda’s ambassador to the Central African Republic, Olivier Kayumba, attended the event.
Asmi highlighted the role played by Rwandan peacekeepers in supporting the smooth conduct of the country’s recent presidential election, which returned President Faustin-Archange Touadéra to office. He also commended the RWABG VII battalion for helping maintain security in Bria and nearby areas, including Ouadda and Sam-Ouandja, which have faced repeated attacks by armed groups.
The RWAMED X medical team was recognized for providing medical services to U.N. personnel as well as to civilians, a contribution officials said has strengthened cooperation with local communities.
Lt. Col. Willy Ntagara, commander of RWABG VII, said the medals would further motivate the troops as they continue their peacekeeping duties. Col. Dr. Simon R. Nyagasaza, head of RWAMED X, said access to medical care remains essential to the success of the U.N. mission.
Rwandan troops were first deployed to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of U.N. peacekeeping operations. Beyond MINUSCA, Rwanda in 2020 sent special forces to the country under a bilateral agreement to help counter unrest linked to armed groups allied with former President François Bozizé.
Rwandan forces are tasked with protecting civilians, government leaders, U.N. personnel and key infrastructure.
