Pakistani medical contingent arrive to South Darfur
December 24, 2008 (NYALA) — A Pakistani medical contingent of 156 military personnel with a Level-III Hospital arrived in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, on 20 December 2008, to join the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID).
The company includes 29 Doctors and the remaining staff is specialized in paramedical, logistical and administration services. The Pakistani Level-III Hospital will provide advanced medical services for the entire mission, especially major operations and advanced treatment.
The Pakistani personnel arrived in Nyala, the headquarters of Sector South, with all the medical equipment needed to operate, said Lieutenant Colonel Anwer Ali Khan, the contingent’s commanding officer.
He said that immediately after its arrival, the contingent had started building its compound, adding that the construction of the hospital buildings is also under way and he expects it will start operating soon.
Pakistan’s contribution to UNAMID also includes Engineering Company 335, which is deployed at El Geneina in the mission’s Sector West.
By the end of July 2007, the Security Council authorized the joint peacekeeping force of about 26,000 uniformed personnel. Some 12,240 have been deployed so far, and senior UN officials have repeatedly called on countries to supply the remaining troops and equipment needed.
(ST)