A total of 597 peacekeepers from MINUSCA's 11th Zambian Contingent were awarded the United Nations Medal on August 18, 2026, in Birao, recognizing their contribution to peace, civil protection, and stability in Vakaga Prefecture. Presented by MINUSCA Force Commander Lieutenant General Humphrey Nyone in the presence of local administrative and military authorities, the distinction honors the contingent's efforts to support local populations, extend state authority, and secure the electoral process across the region.
Deployed across the various sub-prefectures of Vakaga, the Zambian contingent played a key role in protecting civilians, supporting the expansion of state authority, and safeguarding elections. "Vakaga is doing better thanks to your multifaceted actions. I also appreciate your strong collaboration with our Defense and Security Forces. Together, we were able to secure the combined electoral process across Vakaga Prefecture without any major incidents," declared Prefect Jude Ngayok, expressing his gratitude to the Zambian peacekeepers.
Between 2025 and 2026, the contingent conducted 1,218 joint patrols with the Central African Armed Forces (FACA), helping mitigate security threats and build trust among local communities. The unit also provided critical assistance to the population of Am-Dafock following the security events of June 30, 2026.
Abdel Kader Ramadane, Sub-Prefect of Am-Dafock, highlighted the crucial support provided by peacekeepers to residents of the Sudan-border town. He specifically noted their dedication on June 30, 2026, when they helped protect civilians as approximately 11,000 people were displaced. "On behalf of the population of Am-Dafock, I would like to express our deep gratitude to the Zambians for their presence and commitment alongside us. Their courage was remarkable during the attacks of June 30, 2026. Their availability to the community was greatly appreciated," he stated.
Beyond their security mandate, Zambian peacekeepers—particularly female personnel—led numerous community and humanitarian initiatives. These included medical consultations in Bachama, awareness campaigns on Ebola prevention and gender-based violence (GBV), as well as capacity-building workshops for 500 women in Birao. "We are very grateful to the Zambian female peacekeepers for their dedication to the women and communities of Birao. The training we received allowed us to gain skills and strengthen our independence. We thank them for everything they have done for the women of Birao," emphasized Gusima Ibrahim, a member of the Organization of Central African Women (OFCA).
Local authorities and community leaders praised the professionalism, courage, and commitment of the Zambian contingent to advancing peace and civilian protection throughout Vakaga.
Boureima Djelani Abdoul Rachid
