The Rwandan Police peacekeepers deployed in Malakal Upper Nile State under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), on Monday, November 14, conducted Umuganda (communal work) to plant trees to protect the environment.
Some 240 Police officers of Rwanda Formed Police Unit (RWAFPU 1-7) are deployed in Malakal where they are largely charged with protection of civilians in internally displaced camps.
Trees were planted in and around their camp, and along the road.
ACP Emmanuel Karasi, Commissioner for Inspectorate of Services and Ethics, who is in South Sudan on behalf of the RNP leadership, also visited the RWAFPU 1-7 and joined them in Umuganda to plant trees.
While addressing the officers, shortly after Umuganda, ACP Karasi reiterated the need to work with and support those under their protection.
“Peacekeeping is not only about physical security; it is also about engaging in activities that impact on the lives of the people, including protecting the environment through such activities of planting trees,” ACP Karasi told the officers.
He further urged them to carry on serving with determination, discipline, to sustain the Rwandan image in peacekeeping and to protect what has been achieved for peace and wellbeing of the people of South Sudan.
Rwanda maintains two FPU contingents in South Sudan. The RWAFPU-III of 160 officers, majority females, operates in the capital Juba.
Other 28 are Individual Police Officers (IPOs), who serve as Police Advisors and mentors. (End)