UNAMID vows to protect civilians in Darfur
February 9, 2009 (EL FASHER) — The African Union – United Nations mission in Darfur (UNAMID), will stay in Darfur to protect civilians until the signing of a comprehensive peace deal, said the head of the peacekeeping mission two days ago.
Rodolphe Adada, paid a visit to Muhageriya in South Darfur, on February 8, to inspect the conditions on the ground following more than two weeks of clashes that resulted in many casualties and the displacement of thousands of civilians.
“UNAMID is here to stay,” Adada told a gathering of Elders, sheikhs and Umdas – traditional local leaders – in the town center. “We will not leave you until lasting peace is achieved in Darfur. We are very much concerned about your safety and UNAMID will continue its mandate to protect you and that is why we set up our house amongst you,” he added.
Adada informed the gathering that UNAMID is working to establish an enabling environment so that UN agencies and the humanitarian community could resume operations immediately to assist with the humanitarian needs of the population.
The elders, sheikhs and Umdas welcomed the delegation and thanked UNAMID for protecting them during the recent hostilities. They expressed their needs including shelter, food and medicines, and informed that many civilians, who fled the area during the fighting, will soon return to their homes.
Adada met with the advance team of the civil administration dispatched by the Government of South Darfur to establish government services in the area. He assured that UNAMID will redeploy its police to Muhageriya in the next few days and stands ready to contribute to a much needed peaceful environment in the area.
The Joint Special Representative also visited the UNAMID camp site where he was briefed by the Company Commander on the recent developments in the area. The mission has 196- strong force there.
JEM troops took the control of Muhageriya after fighting with Minnawi forces on January 15, but under the pressure of the international community particularly the US, UN and the African Union, the rebels evacuated the town while the army intensified air strikes.
(ST)