UNMISS FORCE COMMANDER ENGAGES FEMALE PEACEKEEPERS IN SOUTH SUDAN

Malakal, 3 September 2025

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) Force Commander, Lt Gen Mohan Subramanian, today participated in an engagement hosted by the Rwandan Peacekeepers Battalion (RWANBATT-2) stationed in Malakal, Upper Nile State, to interact with female peacekeepers and hear directly about their experiences in the field.

The gathering brought together peacekeepers from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police (RNP), alongside their counterparts from India, Cambodia, and several other UNMISS staff officers serving at the  Sector North Headquarters.

At the RWANBATT-2 headquarters, Lt Gen Subramanian was warmly received by Lt Col Robert Rwagihungu, the Contingent Commander.

In his address, the Force Commander not only engaged with the female peacekeepers but also spoke with Rwandan peacekeepers more broadly, commending their professionalism and dedication. He emphasised that the continued contribution of female peacekeepers significantly strengthens trust with local communities and advances the mission’s mandate. He further encouraged them to maintain high standards of discipline, courage and commitment, assuring them of the mission’s full support in their service.

During the interactive session, peacekeepers shared their perspectives on both the challenges and achievements of operating in a complex environment such as Upper Nile. They highlighted the critical importance of resilience, teamwork, and gender inclusion in effective peacekeeping operations.