General Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko (in blue shirt), AU Peace and Security Department Director Mr. Elghassim Wane together with Rwandan Contingent Commander in MISCA, Lt Col JP Karangwa on 13 February 2014 in Bangui (Photo MoD )
The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Chief of MISCA, Gen. (rtd) Jean Marie Michel MOKOKO has conveyed a congratulatory message to Peacekeepers of Rwanda Mechanised Infantry Battalion (RwaMechBatt1) serving in the African-led International Support Mission to the Central African Republic (MISCA).
The message was delivered on International Labour Day on 1st May 2014.
“I extend my warmest congratulations to the Rwandan contingent of MISCA Forces for the work done to date and the results obtained since December 19, 2013. I take this opportunity to reiterate to the Rwandan contingent in MISCA my encouragement and my gratitude for the sacrifices made on a daily basis.
I would like on this occasion also to salute your commitment, professionalism and your courage and selflessness in the accomplishment of our mission”, reads part of the message translated from French.
Under the MISCA Mandate, Rwanda Peacekeepers are charged with protecting civilians, stabilising the country, restoring State authority over the territory, as well as creating conditions conducive to the provision of humanitarian assistance.
RwaMechBatt1 peacekeepers first opened the 700 km humanitarian Corridor on 27 January 2014. Bangui and CAR had been cut off from supplies by armed groups controlling the Bangui-Cameroon main supply route that connects it to the sea port of Douala in Cameroon. They escorted to safe zone more than 5000 Muslims along the 700km route, who were under threat attack, provided medical care and shared food with local residents.
The Rwanda Peacekeepers have introduced Umuganda (community work) in Bangui as one the Home Grown Solutions to contributing to socio-economic development of the country. This, together with aggressive peacekeeping and international community support will see CAR get out of crisis and develop as required.