UNMISS Force Commander honors peacekeepers safeguarding civilians

UNITY – Protecting civilians is at the heart of United Nations Peacekeeping and nowhere is that commitment more evident than in Unity state, where conflict, displacement, and flooding continue to threaten communities.

During a visit to the state capital Bentiu, Force Commander Major General Junhui Wu paid tribute to peacekeepers from Mongolia, Pakistan, and Vietnam, recognizing their dedication to protecting civilians and advancing peace under some of South Sudan's most challenging conditions.

At a medal parade, 776 dedicated peacekeepers, including 100 women, from the three contingents received the United Nations Medal of Honor from the top military official of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in recognition of their exceptional service and commitment to peace.

Reflecting on the violence that erupted in Abiemnhom in March this year, Major General Wu commended the swift response by Mongolian Blue Helmets, who didn’t hesitate to shelter civilians fleeing conflict at the UN base.

"You took active and effective action, establishing emergency shelter for displaced families, providing urgent medical support, and ensuring continuous protection for women, children, and older people," he said.

This, according to Force Commander Wu, embodies peacekeeping in action.

For the Mongolian contingent, these words were a fitting tribute to their determination to continue delivering on the Mission's mandate despite operational challenges.

“Despite operating with reduced personnel and in a complex operating environment, Mongolian peacekeepers have continued to conduct security patrols and respond quickly to evolving threats,” said Colonel Norov Bat-Erdene, Commanding Officer.

Major General Wu also commended the Pakistan Military Engineering Taskforce for its vital role in protecting thousands of civilians from severe floods.

“Since 2020, our engineers have reinforced 15 kilometers of dykes and repaired more than 230 kilometers of roads, benefiting over 100,000 displaced people and residents of Bentiu town while improving humanitarian access. Every rainy season, we assess water levels and raise the dykes to ensure safety and prevent breaches,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Usman Tariq Bangash, Commanding Officer, Pakistan Military Engineering Taskforce.

Medical peacekeepers from Vietnam, too, were feted for providing life-saving healthcare to both UN personnel and local communities and strengthening community trust in the Mission.

“Since 2018, the UNMISS has delivered high-quality medical services. Seven medical teams have treated more than 1,800 outpatients and performed essential surgeries,” said the Force Commander.

As Unity state continues to face insecurity, climate-related shocks, and humanitarian challenges, the work of peacekeepers remains indispensable.

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By Matiisetso Mosala