South Darfur acknowledges UNAMID’s role in reconciliation

October 8, 2009 (KHARTOUM) — South Darfur state government acknowledged the efforts exerted by the hybrid peacekeeping operation to end tribal differences and promote reconciliation.

AU-UN Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) Force Commander, Lieutenant-General Patrick Nyamvumba, on Tuesday met South Darfur state officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Farah Mustafa Abdalla and members of the state cabinet.

The Deputy Governor “acknowledged the Mission’s role in the reconciliation of different tribal groups in the state. He further expressed his gratitude for its assistance and support to the Government, particularly the Ministries of Agriculture and of Animal Resources,” said the UNAMID daily briefing.

Mr. Abdalla thanked the UNAMID for its contribution to the peace process in Darfur and especially in the state of South Darfur. He also commended the hybrid mission for security it provided to IDP camps in the area.

Further the Sudanese official alluded to the work of the Chinese engineering contingent on the construction of a school in the state capital of Nyala.

UNAMID military forces and police personnel conduct daily confidence-building patrols in Darfur villages and displaced camps, besides the escort convoys and other security duties in the restive region.

General Nyamvumba commended the state government’s collaboration with UNAMID and underlined the Mission’s readiness to support the South Darfur authorities.

The Force Commander, who is appointment to UNAMID on 1 September, also expressed his determination to work to ensure that peace was restored to Darfur.

(ST)