Rwandan peacekeepers deployed under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have enhanced the self-defense skills of adolescent girls at Malakia Primary School in Malakal. A total of 60 girls participated in this training, which aimed at equipping them with the ability to protect themselves in challenging situations and boosting their self-confidence.
Chol Nyok, the Headmaster of Malakia Primary School, expressed his gratitude to the Rwandan troops for their invaluable support.
“We decided to request help from the Rwandan peacekeepers because we recognized the importance of empowering our girls to defend themselves. We want them to grow up feeling safe and confident in their abilities,” Nyok said.
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Kabera, Deputy Spokesperson for the Rwandan Defense Forces, emphasized that the training was not meant to teach the girls to fight but rather to defend themselves in times of danger.
“We are not training people to fight; we are teaching them to protect themselves. As neighboring countries, it is our responsibility to support each other in creating a safe environment, especially for the youth who are the future of this nation,” Lt. Col. Kabera explained.
The training included specialized techniques aimed at strengthening the security of young girls, who are often targeted by those with harmful intentions. This initiative highlights Rwanda’s commitment to promoting peace and security, not only within its borders but also in countries like South Sudan.
By empowering these girls, the Rwandan peacekeepers are playing a vital role in fostering a safer, more secure future for vulnerable youth in conflict-affected regions. This effort underscores Rwanda’s ongoing dedication to peacekeeping and humanitarian missions across the globe.
