Rwandan troops serving in RWANBATT-1 and RWANBATT-3, alongside Rwandan police officers deployed under RWA-FPU in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), have provided free medical services to 946 residents in the Luri-Rokwe area on the outskirts of Juba.
The two-day activity was conducted in partnership with Society for Family Health South Sudan (SFH) at Luri-Rokwe Health Centre. Residents received medical screening, treatment and medicines for various communicable and non-communicable diseases.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/10-things-you-should-know-about-formula-1-coming-to-rwanda/
Residents Receive Medical Screening and Treatment
The medical services covered eye and dental conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes and illnesses associated with poor hygiene. The team also provided antenatal care and screening for various diseases.
In addition to medical services, the team conducted awareness sessions on Ebola symptoms and preventive measures amid concerns about the disease spreading in countries neighbouring South Sudan.
South Sudan Officials Commend Rwanda’s Support
The closing ceremony was attended by Dr James Wanyi Tom, Director General in South Sudan’s Ministry of Health; Lieutenant Colonel Maurice Kayinamura, Deputy Commander of RWANBATT-3; Major Robert Muhayimana, Deputy Commander of RWANBATT-1; Senior Superintendent of Police Dative Iribagiza, Commander of RWA-FPU; and Umuhoza Solange, a representative of Society for Family Health South Sudan.
Dr James Wanyi Tom, who represented the South Sudanese government, thanked the Rwandan Army and Police for their continued contribution to the well-being of local communities.
He noted that the area faces challenges in accessing healthcare, including shortages of medicines and experienced healthcare providers. Tom also emphasised the government’s commitment to continued cooperation with the Rwandan Army and Police in military operations and activities aimed at improving the well-being of the population.
Rwandan Forces Pledge Continued Community Support
Lieutenant Colonel Maurice Kayinamura thanked the Ministry of Health, the medical team and residents who participated in the activity.
He assured residents that Rwandan military and police personnel would continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving public health for as long as they remain deployed on the mission.One of the beneficiaries, Abalo Yunis, expressed gratitude for the free medical services. He explained that he and his children had been sick and were pleased to receive treatment without having to pay.
Yunis urged the Rwandan forces to continue assisting residents facing healthcare challenges and said the community would maintain its partnership with them.The initiative highlights the role of Rwandan peacekeepers in supporting access to basic healthcare, strengthening relations with local communities and contributing to humanitarian efforts in their areas of deployment.
