Rwanda dismisses allegation of deployment to South Sudan

The government of Rwanda has denied allegation that it has pledged more troops to South Sudan as a result of the crisis that escalated in the country since last week.

Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Louise Mushikiwabo

Media in Western countries wrote that the country has secretly deployed more peace keepers in the country where crisis escalated since last week between government forces and the faction of South Sudan vice president Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon. Over 300 people were killed in this conflict.

Louise Mushikiwabo, Rwanda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday, “I have no idea of other soldiers from Rwanda being sent to south Sudan.”

So far, Rwanda maintains 1,650 peacekeepers who are part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Mushikiwabo said it’s a shame such innocent Africans still die in a given African country, but Rwanda would only send more troops upon demand.

“Rwanda and other African countries are ready to give more soldiers if asked to. However, there are procedures that have to be followed before entering another country.”

Mushikiwabo said it should be every one’s concern to ensure that innocent civilians are secure.

The African Union assembly that concluded on July 18 in Kigali approved a plan that will help collect $ 1.2 billion to fund the Union’s activities.

Part of this money will be used to contribute 25% of peace keeping budget.

Meanwhile, Mushikiwabo also announced Rwanda’s support to Uganda’s candidate on the position of AU chairperson. Specioza Wandira Kazibwe former Ugandan vice president.

“Uganda is our neighbor and also a member in the East African Community of which we would love to have the AU chairperson. All our support is there though we are not sure if the candidate will be back,” she emphasized.

AU assembly postponed the election of chairperson because none of three candidates obtained two third, the majority votes.

Mushikiwabo added that Rwanda is privileged to have hosted such a big event and also looking forward to host many more.

“The AU summit that was held in Kigali gave us confidence to host further more big events in and positioned ourselves as capable,” added Minister Mushikiwabo.