Zambia concerned about unstable security situation in Sudan

April 28, 2007 (LUSAKA) — Zambian Defense Minister George Mpombo said Friday that the government is concerned about the unstable security situation in Sudan.

Mpombo said it is in this regard that Zambia will continue sending troops to that country as peacekeepers until peace is attained.

Speaking during a farewell parade for a Zambian contingent of peacekeeping troops at Arakan Barracks in Lusaka, Mpombo said as a member of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations, Zambia is obliged to help other countries striving to restore peace. The situation in Darfur of Sudan region is critical as people are being killed on a daily basis.

The minister urged the troops to work within their mandate as given by the United Nations and observe discipline.

Mpombo said the government and the people of Zambia have a lot confidence in them.

Deputy Army Commander Major General Raphael Chisheta said the 3rd contingent was composed of 339 officers of men and women, and they will be in Sudan for the next six months.

(Xinhua)