UN lauds RNP deployment in CAR

The United Nations has welcomed efforts by the Government of Rwanda to restoring peace in restive countries and early Police deployment in Central African Republic (CAR).

Monday, September 01, 2014
Ambulances manned by the Rwandan Police Contingent in CAR. They arrived in the country yesterday. (Courtesy)

The United Nations has welcomed efforts by the Government of Rwanda to restoring peace in restive countries and early Police deployment in Central African Republic (CAR).

The advance team of the Rwanda Police peacekeepers, under Rwanda Formed Police Unit One (RWAFPU), arrived in CAR yesterday morning for a one-year peacekeeping mission under the United Nations Multi-dimensional Integrated mission in Central African Republic (Minusca).

The RWAFPU1 contingent of 140 officers, including 14 females, will be deployed in the restive country in four phases.

Paolo Bonanno, the acting chief of operations Standing Capacity-Police Division in the UN, while receiving the advance team at its base in the capital Bangui, said their arrival brings hope to the people of CAR.

"In the meeting in New York, when we requested countries that were willing and ready to deploy FPU contingent in the CAR, Rwanda immediately expressed her will and ability both logistical and personnel, and we are happy today they lived to their promise,” Bonanno said.

"I believe Rwanda is ready to face security challenges to accomplish their mission mandate such as protection of civilians, and restoring stability, justice and human rights.”

He said the important part is for all peacekeepers, both army and police from all contributing countries, to harmonise their activities to restore stability and hope in this country.

Chief Supt. Benoit Kayijuka, RWAFPU contingent commander, who was part of the advance team, said Rwanda is ready to deal with the security challenges.

"It has always been Rwanda’s desire and willingness to share its best practices and use its success stories to bring about peace in other countries and Rwanda is always prepared to play its part to help make Africa and the world a safer place for all,” Kayijuka said.

Rwanda became the first nation to deploy a contingent of FPU under Minusca, which also boasts of a Rwanda Defence Forces contingent.