Ethiopian transport company joins Darfur peacekeeping mission

December 23, 2008 (EL GENEINA) – A new batch of Ethiopian troops arrived yesterday to the capital of West Darfur state to join the African Union–United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), the hybrid mission said today.

45 Ethiopian peacekeepers of the Ethiopian Medium Transport Company arrived in El Geneina, on 22 December 2008. They will mainly support the distribution of cargo between sector logistic bases, the movement of bulk cargo, including water and fuel tankers, and provide transport capabilities.

The UN Security Council in July 2007 authorized the deployment of a force joint African Union – United force in Darfur since January 2008. the 26,000 strong force is composed of 19,555 military personnel including 3772 police personnel, 19 formed police units comprising of up to 140 personnel each and 60 military observers.

Yesterday’s deployment brings the total number of UNAMID military personnel in Darfur to 12, 242

Ethiopia’s contribution to UNAMID includes an Ethiopian Engineering unit, one Infantry Battalion and one Multi-Role Logistics Company,

The first group of the Ethiopian Multi-role Logistics Unit, comprising of 180 personnel, arrived in El Geneina, West Darfur, on 20 December 2008 giving UNAMID a much needed boost in logistical support. The strength of this company when fully deployed will be 300 personnel.

Ethiopia’s contribution to UNAMID include one Infantry Battalion; one transport Company, one Reconnaissance Company, 29 Staff officers and 9 Military observers. In addition, another battalion is expected to be deployed in 2009.

(ST)