RWANDAN PEACEKEEPERS PROVIDE FREE MEDICAL SERVICES TO PRISONERS IN BRIA, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) in Bria today conducted a medical outreach at Bria Prison, providing free healthcare services to inmates as part of their continued commitment to civilian protection and community support.

The initiative was carried out by Rwanda Battle Group 8 in collaboration with the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital contingent, it aimed to address essential health needs within the prison community by offering a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine consultations, gynecological care, dental treatment, and other critical healthcare support.

The activity was attended by the Director of Bria Prison, Mahamat Adoum Salle; the Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital, Col Dr. Christian Mukwesi; and the Commander of Rwanda Battle Group 8, Lieutenant Col David Ngabonziza.

In his welcoming remarks, Bria Prison Director Mahamat Adoum Salle expressed sincere gratitude to MINUSCA leadership and the Rwandan peacekeepers for their timely intervention. He described MINUSCA as a longstanding and reliable partner in various areas of support and commended the medical outreach as a strong example of effective cooperation.

He further highlighted the  challenges prisoners face in accessing medical care, particularly due to shortage of essential medicines and medical supplies. “When prisoners experience health problems, we take them to the hospital where medication is prescribed, but obtaining those medicines is often difficult,” he explained. “It is therefore extremely important that the Rwandan peacekeepers under MINUSCA have come to provide free medical treatment to our inmates.”

Col Dr. Christian Mukwesi, Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital, stated that the outreach was guided by the fundamental peacekeeping principle of protecting civilians.

“This medical outreach at Bria Prison demonstrates our commitment not only to maintaining security but also to promote the well-being, dignity, and fundamental rights of every individual. Health is a universal right, not a privilege, by offering free medical consultations, treatment, and preventive care to prisoners, we reaffirm that every human life is precious and deserve compassion,” He said.

This initiative highlights the broader role of peacekeepers beyond security operations. It reflects solidarity, partnership, and a shared responsibility to uphold human rights, even in the most challenging environments.