In Kaga-Bandoro, 1,131 Pakistani peacekeepers from MINUSCA, representing the battalion, the engineering company, and the aviation unit, were awarded the United Nations Medal on February 11, 2026. More than just a medal, it represents the UN's recognition of their significant contribution to peace, the extension of state authority, and the security of the general elections held on 28 December 2025, in the Central African Republic.
The medal parade ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Force Commander of MINUSCA, Major General Maychel Asmi, in the presence of local authorities, including the Prefect of Nana-Gribizi, Nino Pierre Honoré Yangoua, as well as civil society representatives and community leaders.
“Deployed to the region in March and April 2025, members of the 11th Pakistani battalion of MINUSCA carried out more than 1,400 operational tasks, including patrols and escorts across the Sector Center area, with no loss or damage to United nations equipment, or peacekeepers reported.”, emphasized Major General Maychel Asmi.
The battalion also made a significant contribution to the disarmament and demobilization of ex-combatants, ensuring the security of these activities, particularly in Ketté-Sido and Kabo, in the Ouham-Fafa prefecture. This contributed to the progress made in a complex security environment and supported the objectives of stabilization and peacebuilding.
The Pakistani peacekeepers also contributed to the smooth conduct of the general elections held on 28 December 2025, and to the protection of civilians through logistical support and providing security in several road axes under difficult conditions.
Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation
Deployed on 17 September 2025, the engineering company operated primarily in Bangassou, one of the most challenging areas in the country, and completed 14 major projects within five months, restoring mobility and expanding the Mission's operational reach. This work included the rehabilitation of approximately 120 kilometers of the Bangassou-Pombolo road and bridges on the Bangassou-Bakouma and Bangassou-Rafaï roads, including the PK 65 bridge.
“The engineering company also rehabilitated and extended the Obo airstrip and ensured the ongoing maintenance of the Bangassou airstrip, including the rapid construction of a helicopter landing pad in Obo, thereby strengthening the Mission's capabilities in logistical support, rapid response, and medical evacuation,” added Major General Asmi.
The engineering company members also provided essential support to disarmament and demobilization operations in Mboki and Pombolo, while carrying out demining and the elimination of explosive devices during their mission.
Over 600 Flight Hours for Various Missions!
Deployed in August 2025, the Aviation Unit has already logged 684 flight hours, providing air support to all sectors of MINUSCA and offering extensive coverage, greater flexibility, and increased responsiveness.
“Pak Aviation has supported major operations, including disarmament and demobilization activities in Sikikédé, Kabo, Djema, and Bambouti, conducting reconnaissance, troop insertion and extraction missions, as well as air logistics support missions, in addition to its routine tasks,” stated the Deputy Force Commander.
The Aviation Unit has thus transported over 1,100 people and airlifted over 160 metric tons of essential cargo, significantly improving the Mission’s operational effectiveness. This also includes seven medical evacuation missions in particularly challenging conditions.
The prefect of Nana-Gribizi, Nino Pierre Honore Yangoua, commended the contribution of the Pakistani peacekeepers to the stabilization and peacebuilding efforts. “We worked closely with the Pakistani battalion to ensure the protection of civilians and the security of the entire population. They were always available and very helpful, especially during field missions,” stated Mr. Yangoua.
The commander of the 11th Pakistani battalion of MINUSCA Force, Lieutenant Colonel Faisal Wali, welcomed this recognition and expressed his pride in having achieved all the objectives assigned at the beginning of their mission. The contingent, now completing its deployment, will begin repatriating its personnel in early March, with the gradual arrival of the 12th contingent, which will take over.
Abdourahmane DIALLO
