UN awards Kenyan police for exemplary service in S. Sudan

A contingent of Kenyan police officers have been lauded for their distinguished service to the United Nations and the people of South Sudan.

The 23 officers have served with the UN Mission in South Sudan since November last year.

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Their services included community policing and protecting those displaced, many of whom are women and children.

“It has been quite an experience learning how the conflict affected them and getting an opportunity to guide and counsel them,” Chief Inspector Irene Kerubo said.

Kenya has played an important role in peace-building in South Sudan as talks continue between its leaders in the hope of bringing an end to conflict that has plagued the country since 2013.

Political negotiations are currently being hosted in Khartoum by Sudanese President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir and further talks may be held in Nairobi in the coming weeks.

Kenyan Ambassador to South Sudan Clelland Leshore said political leaders are committed to supporting their neighbours build lasting peace.

“It is our hope that the leadership in South Sudan will rise above all parties and interests in order to pursue peace for the people of South Sudan,” he said.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General, David Shearer, praised the officers for their integrity noting that they had worked in many dangerous and remote locations.

“They are not easy places to be and when you’re in such an environment you realize how challenging being far away from your loved ones can be,” he said.