Rwandan Troops Lead Malaria Campaign and Tree Planting in Juba

(Juba) – Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) partnered with local residents of Juba on August 19, 2023, to carry out a community service activity known as “Umuganda,” aimed at improving hygiene, health, and environmental conservation.

The event took place in the Muniki Block Council area of Juba City and brought together members of the Rwandan military contingents RWANBATT-3, RWANBATT-1, and Rwanda Aviation Unit 11, along with Juba City Council leaders and residents. Umuganda, which is a Rwandan tradition of community work, was organized to strengthen unity and contribute to local development.

More than 1,000 people participated in the activities, which included tree planting, garbage collection, and an anti-malaria medical campaign. The event was also supported by the South Sudan Waste Management Union, Green Youth Empowerment, and the Rwandan Community in South Sudan.

Senior figures present included the Sector Juba Commander, Brigadier General Abdullah Al Mamun, and the Director of Muniki Block Council, Timo Wani Marcelino, who both welcomed the collaboration and praised the turnout.

In the health component of the initiative, the Rwandan Medical Team, working alongside the Society for Family Health in South Sudan (SFH), offered free malaria testing and treatment to local residents. Around 200 people from Muniki were treated for malaria during the event.

Colonel Bertin Mukasa CYUBAHIRO, the Contingent Commander of RWANBATT-3, described Umuganda as a homegrown African solution that promotes collective action for the good of the community. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in creating a clean and healthy living environment, especially in urban areas facing health and sanitation challenges.