The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, who is on an official visit to the Central African Republic (CAR), along with the Defence Spokesperson, Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, visited the Rwandan peacekeepers (Rwanda Battle Group VII and Level 2+ Hospital) serving under MINUSCA in Bria, Haute-Kotto Prefecture in the Eastern part of CAR.
Upon his arrival, he was briefed by the Rwanda Battle Group VII Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Willy Ntagara, on the security situation and operations undertaken in efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Area of Responsibility.
The Army Chief of Staff interacted with the soldiers and conveyed a message from HE, the President of the Republic of Rwanda, and Commander In Chief of the RDF, thanking them for their professionalism and dedication to duty. He commended the work done by the Rwanda UN and bilateral forces in CAR in maintaining peace and enhancing the well-being of the local communities. He urged the troops to remain steadfast and maintain vigilance at all times while executing their mandated tasks.
He took the opportunity to brief them on the current security situation in Rwanda and the region, noting that its borders are secure from threats from DRC as a result of Rwanda’s defensive measures.
Rwanda Battle Group VII is a Mechanised Infantry Battalion and one of the Rwandan contingents serving under MINUSCA. Some of their tasks include the protection of civilians, conducting day and night patrols, and securing the Main supply routes. They also engage in Civil-Military activities, such as community work (Umuganda), provision of free medical services, and any other activities aimed at enhancing the well-being of the local population.
Level 2+ Hospital provides a range of medical services to MINUSCA personnel deployed in Sector East including general surgery, anesthesiology and critical care, physiotherapy, medical imaging, internal medicine and dental services. (End).