Rwanda Defence Force Chief Visits Peacekeepers in South Sudan

Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff (ACOS), visited Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in Juba on April 30, 2024. During his visit, the ACOS met with UNMISS and South Sudanese military leaders to discuss the performance and cooperation of Rwandan troops in the peacekeeping mission.

The ACOS held discussions with the UNMISS Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Mr. Nicholas Haysom, focusing on the performance of the Rwandan contingents deployed in UNMISS. He also met with Gen Santino Deng Wol, the Chief of Defence Forces of the South Sudan People's Defence Forces. Their talks centered on strengthening the existing bilateral military cooperation between South Sudan and Rwanda.

Maj Gen Nyakarundi conveyed a message from Rwandan President Paul Kagame, expressing appreciation to the peacekeepers for their professionalism and discipline in carrying out their duties. The ACOS also briefed the troops on the current security situation in Rwanda and the broader region.

As part of his visit, the ACOS is expected to meet with Rwandan troops deployed in Malakal and hold discussions with the UNMISS Force Commander. These engagements aim to assess the operational readiness and welfare of the Rwandan peacekeepers serving in various locations across South Sudan.

Why this matters: Rwanda's commitment to UN peacekeeping missions highlights its active role in promoting regional stability and security. The visit by the RDF Army Chief of Staff demonstrates the importance Rwanda places on the performance and well-being of its troops serving in challenging environments like South Sudan.

The visit by Maj Gen Nyakarundi highlights the strong partnership between Rwanda and the UN in peacekeeping efforts. It also emphasizes the significance of bilateral military cooperation between Rwanda and South Sudan in addressing security challenges and fostering peace in the region. As Rwandan peacekeepers continue to serve with distinction in UNMISS, their contributions remain vital to the mission's success and the stability of South Sudan.

Key Takeaways

• RDF Army Chief of Staff visited Rwandan peacekeepers in South Sudan under UNMISS.
• Met with UNMISS, South Sudanese military leaders to discuss Rwandan troops' performance.
• Conveyed Rwandan President's appreciation for peacekeepers' professionalism and discipline.
• Assessed operational readiness and welfare of Rwandan peacekeepers across South Sudan.
• Rwanda's commitment to UN peacekeeping missions promotes regional stability and security.