RWANDAN PEACEKEEPERS IN CAR JOIN SAM-OUANDJA RESIDENTS IN COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP

Rwandan peacekeepers from Rwanda Battle Group VIII, serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), joined Sam-Ouandja residents, members of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA), gendarmes, police officers, local leaders, teachers and MINUSCA personnel in a community clean-up exercise at Lycée Moderne de Ouandja-Kotto.

The activity focused on cleaning the school grounds to promote a clean, safe and conducive learning environment.

The event was attended by the Sous-Préfet of Sam-Ouandja, Ker Gos-Ngar; Member of Parliament Ekondji Marina; and Commander of Rwanda Battle Group VIII, Lt Col David Ngabonziza, alongside other local leaders.

Speaking after the activity, Sous-Préfet Ker Gos-Ngar commended Rwandan peacekeepers for their continued cooperation with local communities and the Central African Republic’s security forces.

He noted that the clean-up exercise demonstrated collaboration between MINUSCA, the Rwandan contingent, national security forces and local residents in promoting peace, security and development.

The Sous-Préfet also highlighted the positive impact of the peacekeepers’ presence on security in Sam-Ouandja. He explained that the town had previously experienced occupation by armed groups, but the security situation had improved following the deployment of MINUSCA forces, including the Rwandan contingent. Consequently, more children are returning to school.

He further expressed gratitude for the continued joint patrols conducted by Rwandan peacekeepers and national security forces, which protect residents and enable them to carry out daily activities with greater confidence.

Lt Col David Ngabonziza, Commander of Rwanda Battle Group VIII, said the contingent’s participation in the clean-up exercise reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local communities and working alongside national security forces and local authorities to promote peace, security and the well-being of the Central African people.