Rwandan peacekeepers in UNMISS commended for professionalism and dedication

By The Inspirer. 

Rwandan troops serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have been praised for their professionalism and commitment to duty.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Sector Juba Commander of UN forces in South Sudan, Brig. Gen. Mohammad Iqbal Hossain, visited Rwanda Battalion 3 (Rwanbatt-3) and commended the contingent for its discipline and exemplary conduct.

He was received by the Rwandan contingent commander, Col. Innocent Rwaka Muhirwe, who briefed him on the battalion’s operational responsibilities, with particular emphasis on the protection of civilians.

Brig. Gen. Hossain lauded the Rwandan troops for their professionalism, discipline and dedication, stressing that civilian protection remains the core mandate of the mission. He urged the peacekeepers to strictly adhere to the Rules of Engagement and to prioritise restraint in the use of force.

Reflecting on his recent visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, the UN commander underscored the weight of responsibility borne by peacekeepers and reaffirmed UNMISS leadership’s commitment to supporting them in addressing operational challenges.

Rwanda’s sustained contribution to peacekeeping

Since 2011, Rwanda has deployed Formed Police Units, infantry battalions (Rwanbatt) and a Rwandan Aviation Unit to South Sudan. Their responsibilities include protecting civilians and UN personnel, securing UN facilities, supporting stabilisation efforts, preventing conflict and conducting community outreach to strengthen trust between peacekeepers and local populations.

In 2026, 160 Rwandan police officers were deployed to Juba, replacing a contingent that had completed its one-year tour of duty.

In 2024, Rwanbatt-3 and the 12th Aviation Unit were awarded United Nations medals in recognition of their outstanding service, professionalism and contribution to security before being rotated out of the mission.

Rwandan forces also actively engage in community development initiatives, including organising sports activities and training programmes in displacement camps to promote social cohesion and confidence-building.

Rwanda remains one of the leading troop- and police-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping missions globally, with its personnel in South Sudan consistently earning praise from UN leadership for their discipline, integrity and operational effectiveness.