UN commends Malawi troops in DRC

Commander of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Monusco), lieutenant general Carlos Alberto dos Santos Cruz, has praised Malawi’s soldiers for their gallant efforts in defeating M23 Rebels and helping to bring peace to the DRC.

Santos Cruz, who heads a contingent of about 3 000 troops from Tanzania, Malawi and South Africa in the DRC mission, made the remarks upon arrival in Lilongwe, ahead of Malawi soldiers’ return soon.

“This trip is part of my tour of the countries that have contributed troops. I have to thank Malawi for the contribution to peacekeeping in the DRC,” Santos Cruz told reporters.

The Monusco commander also briefed the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander, General Henry Odillo, at Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe before proceeding to Chikala, in Zomba, where he inspected a contingent of Malawi troops currently undergoing intensive training before being posted to the DRC mission.

He, however, expressed sadness that his mission’s success in securing peace in the DRC was overshadowed by the death of four officers and the injury of 15 soldiers from other countries.

“It is sad but it is part of our job and we accept that [deaths and injuries in war],” said Santos Cruz, who is from Brazil.