Rwandan peacekeepers serving in the Central African Republic were honoured with United Nations Service Medals for their role in supporting peace, security and stability under the UN mission in the country (MINUSCA).

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Members of RWANBATT-2 received the medals on Thursday, August 27, at Bossembele Camp in Ombella-M’Poko Prefecture, in a ceremony presided over by MINUSCA Deputy Force Commander Maj Gen Maychel Asmi.

The ceremony was also attended by Ombella-M’Poko Governor Joseph Dokombo, MINUSCA Sector West Commander Brig Gen Ganselem Lkhagvasuren, Commander of Joint Task Force Bangui Brig Gen Franco Rutagengwa, Rwanda Defence Attaché to CAR Col Alphonse Gahima and members of the Rwandan community.

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Asmi praised the peacekeepers for their professionalism and commitment to the mission, saying the recognition reflects the sacrifices made in helping maintain security in CAR.

"Wear this medal with pride. It represents sacrifice, discipline, professionalism, and service to the people of the Central African Republic,” he said.

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RWANBATT-2 Contingent Commander Col Laurent Kalisa Munana said the troops would continue working to fulfil the MINUSCA mandate and uphold the reputation they have built through discipline, professionalism and dedication.

"We remain determined to uphold the trust placed in us and to continue serving with the same commitment and professionalism until the completion of our mission,” Munana said.

Rwanda is the third largest troop and police contributor to UN peacekeeping missions. As of May, there were more than 4,000 Rwandan troops and police officers deployed to UN missions in CAR and South Sudan, according to the UN Peacekeeping.