399 peacekeepers from the 4th Nepalese Light Infantry Battalion of MINUSCA, including 30 women, have been awarded the United Nations Medal in Alindao, located in the Basse-Kotto prefecture (southern CAR). This distinction honors their commitment to peace, the protection of civilians, and the restoration of state authority in the Central African Republic.
Since its deployment on December 15, 2025, the Nepalese contingent has operated in a complex environment marked by security challenges, difficult terrain, and a demanding climate. Despite these constraints, the battalion has conducted 2,649 patrols, including 121 joint patrols with the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and 97 long-range patrols.
The contingent provided essential support for electoral operations in Basse-Kotto and Kouango, ensured convoy escorts, and helped transfer certain MINUSCA infrastructure to local authorities.
Alongside its security missions, the contingent has strengthened its ties with local communities through various civil-military activities. More than 500 students benefited from school supplies, while sports equipment, agricultural tools, and safe drinking water were distributed to the population.
In his address, Major General Maychel Asmi, MINUSCA Force Deputy Commander, praised the contingent's professionalism, resilience, and dedication. He emphasized that this recognition rewards their contribution to the protection of civilians, the restoration of state authority, and the stabilization of the country.
The contingent commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Binod Bikash Pathak, also paid tribute to the commitment of the Nepalese peacekeepers throughout their deployment. He noted that “the medal awarded constitutes collective recognition of the efforts made by all personnel in fulfilling their missions in the service of peace, the protection of civilians, and the restoration of state authority in the Central African Republic.”
The event, held on November 4, 2026, was marked by a tree-planting activity and cultural performances reflecting Nepal’s rich heritage. These activities highlighted both MINUSCA’s commitment to environmental protection and the Nepalese contingent’s desire to promote peace, cultural diversity, and closer ties with local communities.
