Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) offered free medical services to residents of Diel, a community near the Nile River in Upper Nile State.
The initiative was carried out jointly with their UNMISS counterparts based in Malakal, during a routine patrol to assess security conditions along the Nile and surrounding areas.
The medical services included general consultations, malaria treatment, child healthcare, health awareness campaigns, and other basic medical support. Essential medicines were also distributed free of charge.
Local leader Jacob Bith Wuor thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers and UNMISS for the timely assistance, praising their ability to combine security duties with humanitarian support. He said the gesture demonstrated solidarity and commitment to the people of Upper Nile.
Lt Col Robert Rwagihungu, the commander of the Rwandan contingent in Malakal, explained that the medical team accompanied the patrol to provide much‑needed healthcare to communities with limited access to clinics. He emphasized that the activity reflects Rwanda’s dedication to protecting civilians and improving the welfare of vulnerable populations.
The initiative strengthened trust and cooperation between civilians and UN peacekeepers, showcasing the humanitarian spirit of the Rwandan Defence Forces. It also highlighted how community support can be integrated into routine security operations.
