Rwandan police officers serving in the RWAFPU3 unit under the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, known as MINUSCA, operating in Bangassou city in Mbomou Province (southeastern CAR), joined local residents in a community cleanup exercise.
The cleanup took place in the 1st Arrondissement, one of the districts of Bangassou city, and featured collaboration between Rwandan police, other UN personnel from various countries, local civilians, and national security forces. The activity focused on cleaning the Bangassou cemetery, clearing surrounding bushes and trees, and removing weeds along the road from Bangassou to Bangui.
Théophile Demba, the Mayor of Bangassou, praised the Rwandan police for their exceptional service in protecting civilians, working closely with national security forces to maintain safety, and contributing to community development activities.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Thomas Kayonga, commander of the RWAFPU3-3 contingent, thanked the community members for voluntarily joining the cleanup and for their commitment to promoting public health.
He said:
“Maintaining cleanliness in our living and working environments is everyone’s responsibility because hygiene is the foundation of good health. I thank everyone who joined us in this public service activity, which strengthens unity — the cornerstone of peace and development.”
He reminded participants that community service (umuganda) is a powerful tool for collective action and problem-solving, which accelerates local and national development. He encouraged them to continue practicing and promoting this culture for a better living environment.
Rwanda began deploying police officers to peacekeeping missions in the Central African Republic in 2014. It currently has four contingents with over 640 personnel operating in different parts of the country.
