International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers celebrated in Malakal

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers celebrated in Malakal

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers celebrated in Malakal

29 May 2016

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers celebrated in Malakal

UNMISS and UN agencies celebrated the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers in the Malakal PoC site, under the theme “Honoring our Heroes”.

 The program began with a unified UNMISS Peacekeepers parade  comprised of Rwandan, Ethiopian and Indian troops serving in Malakal, as well as participation from the Rwandan police contingent.

In her opening remarks during the celebrations the Malakal head of field office, Hazel Dewet,  read the message of United Nations Secretary general Ban Ki-moon which placed emphases on the role of the “Blue Helmets” already deployed across 16 peacekeeping operations around the world and their selfless service in which they saved countless lives, advanced peace and inspired hope. In South Sudan, more than 200,000 civilians feared for their lives and sought shelter in UN bases across the country the message stated.

The celebrations was crowns by cultural dancing activities from both South Sudan local group dancers known as Kwacha among others and colorful dances from Rwandan, Ethiopian, Indian and Bangladesh Force Marine Unit.

It’s worth mentioning that, prior to the day there was been friendly football and volley match between IDPs and UNMISS.

The day was concluded by cheerful dancer’s undertakings from IDPs community.