Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), alongside fellow UN peacekeepers, have provided free medical services to residents of Diel, a community located along the banks of the Nile River in Upper Nile State.
The medical team offered a wide range of healthcare services, including the diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses such as malaria, child healthcare, health awareness and education, and other general medical services. Essential medicines were also distributed free of charge to local residents.
The Chief of Diel, Jacob Bith Wuor, praised the Rwandan peacekeepers and the leadership of UNMISS for delivering much-needed medical assistance to the community. He said the support came at a critical time and reflected the mission’s commitment to improving the well-being of local residents.
Wuor also commended the peacekeepers for successfully combining security operations with humanitarian activities, saying the initiative demonstrated solidarity, compassion, and dedication to the people of Upper Nile State.
The Commander of the Rwandan contingent in UNMISS Malakal, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Rwagihungu, said the medical team accompanied the security patrol to ensure that residents with limited access to healthcare facilities could receive essential treatment.
Lt. Col. Rwagihungu noted that the initiative reflects the commitment of Rwandan peacekeepers and UNMISS to protecting civilians while promoting the health and well-being of vulnerable communities in their area of operation.
He added that such community outreach activities strengthen trust and cooperation between local residents and UN peacekeepers, while demonstrating Rwanda’s continued commitment to supporting peace, stability, and humanitarian efforts in South Sudan.
The initiative also highlights how humanitarian assistance can be effectively integrated into routine peacekeeping operations, helping to build stronger relationships with communities while addressing urgent healthcare needs in remote areas.
