Ethiopian peacekeepers awarded UN medals for variety of key contributions

Addis Ababa, November 27, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopian peacekeepers deployed in South Sudan under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have received UN medals for a variety of key contributions in South Sudan.

Together with other peacekeepers from the Republic of Korea and India, Ethiopian peacekeepers have demonstrated their contributions to peace in Jonglei and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, South Sudan, according to UNMISS.

“While giving medals to uniformed peacekeepers may appear to be a standard procedure, it is an act that carries profound meaning.  The Blue Helmets who receive them have proved their worth by demonstrating selflessness, commitment and sacrifice, often under challenging circumstances.”

That was the gist of the message delivered by Lieutenant-General Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), at three recent medal-pinning events in Bor.

“While it means hard work and sometimes daunting tasks, I feel privileged to contribute to the pursuit of peace. After 14 years in the military, the experience of helping create a better world is both rewarding and unforgettable,” said Bezawit Girum, a medical doctor in the Ethiopian army.

She was one of 68 women peacekeepers from Ethiopia and South Korea having her efforts recognized during the award ceremonies. In total, more than 1,700 military personnel – 643 from Ethiopia, 268 from South Korea and 850 hailing from India – being honoured for their outstanding service in the name of peace since their deployment in April this year.

The 18th Ethiopian contingent’s significant role in keeping convoys of humanitarian aid safe as they bring life-saving supplies to those most in need was duly highlighted by the visiting Force Commander.

To date, they have conducted 124 short and long duration patrols, including some by air, to deter violence against civilians. They have also completed about 1,000 foot patrols and provided force protection for countless missions undertaken by UNMISS and humanitarian partners.