RWANDAN PEACEKEEPERS PROVIDE FREE MEDICAL CARE AND SPORTS EQUIPMENT TO IDPs IN MALAKAL

Rwandan peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) under RWANBATT-2 conducted a free medical outreach and donated sports equipment, including football jerseys and balls, to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Malakal, Upper Nile State.

The activity brought together Rwandan peacekeepers and local community members in a spirit of cooperation and solidarity. It reflected UNMISS’s commitment to protecting civilians while fostering trust, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence.

During the medical outreach, RWANBATT-2 medical personnel provided consultations, treatment, and health education, with a focus on non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. More than 107 beneficiaries received medical assistance.

Addressing participants, the IDP site chairman, Mr. Peter Adieng, appreciated the initiative and commended UNMISS, particularly RWANBATT-2, for its continued support and cooperation with the displaced community.

“This initiative demonstrates the strong cooperation between UNMISS and the local community in Malakal. The quality of medical services provided today is highly valuable, and we hope this partnership will continue,” he said.

Speaking to community members, RWANBATT-2 Contingent Commander Lt. Col. Emmanuel Ndahiro highlighted Rwanda’s people-centred approach to peacekeeping. He emphasised that peacekeepers must maintain peace and security while contributing to the well-being of the communities they serve.

“Rwanda’s peacekeeping philosophy places people at the centre of our mission. Beyond maintaining security, we are committed to supporting local communities and creating conditions in which they can live in peace,” said Lt. Col. Ndahiro.

One beneficiary, Mr. Silvio Stephen, said: “We appreciate the Rwandan peacekeepers for treating us free of charge. We request that these medical activities continue because many people living in the camp face challenges in accessing proper healthcare and cannot afford medical treatment or medication.”

In addition to the medical outreach, a friendly football match between RWANBATT-2 and IDP site youth promoted social cohesion and community engagement. RWANBATT-2 won 1–0 in a contest marked by friendly competition and camaraderie.