26 May 2013 - Children recently demobilized from the South Sudanese army were treated to a cultural event today by the UNMISS Mongolian contingent in Bentiu, Unity State.

In honour of International Day of UN Peacekeepers (29 May), the Mongolians performed cultural dances and folksongs for 27 children formerly associated with the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) as well as members of the local community.

One of the children, 16-year-old Taban Garkuoth Rut, thanked the peacekeepers and expressed his wish to become a peacekeeper one day.

On behalf of the UNMISS Chief Child Protection Officer, Migyikra Erasmus Ndemole pledged to work with the SPLA to make it a child-free army.

Also celebrating Peacekeeper's Day, the UNMISS Unity team delivered presentations on 24 May to Bentiu Lich Primary School students on the culture, people and geography of Bentiu peacekeepers' countries of origin.

A member of UN Police introduced the Philippines, a Mongolian Battalion soldier spoke about and showed photos of Mongolia, and a Military Liaison Officer presented videos and photos of Bangladesh.

After the presentations, Mongolian Battalion artists presented a cultural show of modern and traditional Mongolian music and songs.