President Faustin Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic presented the Presidential Medal of Appreciation to Rwandan peacekeepers (RWABATT12) who are part of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).
The distinguished award was given in appreciation of the peacekeepers’ exceptional service, steadfast professionalism, and commitment to peacekeeping in the Central African Republic (CAR).
Throughout the continuous fighting in the area, RWABATT12 has been crucial in preserving the security of the CAR President and shielding people.
The commanding officer of RWABATT12, Lt. Col. Joseph Gatabazi, conveyed his sincere appreciation to President Touadera for the assistance provided to his soldiers. Additionally, he commended the Rwandan peacekeepers’ tenacity and dedication to carrying out their duty.
“This recognition is a great honour for us,” Lt. Col. Gatabazi stated. “Our efforts to maintain peace and security have been made possible by the invaluable support of the President and the people of the Central African Republic.”
Several senior CAR government officials, Mr. Olivier Kayumba, the head of Rwanda’s diplomatic mission in the CAR, and members of the Rwandan community living in the nation attended the ceremony.
The Presidential Medal of Appreciation emphasises how vital RWABATT12 was to the Central African Republic’s stabilisation and stresses the need of international collaboration in peacekeeping operations.