(BENTIU, UNITY STATE) – A contingent of Ghanaian police officers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has been awarded United Nations Medals of Honour for their service in Unity State, where devastating floods and insecurity continue to affect thousands of people.
For several years, flooding has displaced hundreds of thousands of residents in Bentiu, turning the area into what many describe as an island surrounded by stagnant water. The situation has worsened living conditions, with many families relying heavily on humanitarian assistance while also facing the threat of recurring violence.
Amid these challenges, 270 Ghanaian police officers, including 63 women, have been deployed to support local communities. They were recognised in Bentiu for their contribution to protecting civilians, maintaining order, and facilitating humanitarian operations across Unity State.
“Each medal symbolises the countless hours of service, the challenges overcome, and the lives touched through your unwavering commitment,” said Chief Superintendent Bismark Achaab, Commander of the Ghana Formed Police Unit, during the medal ceremony.
The officers have been praised for working to ensure safety for displaced families, assisting in the delivery of humanitarian aid, and supporting their South Sudanese counterparts. Their work has included training the South Sudan National Police Service in areas such as community policing, crime investigation, human rights protection, preparing cases for prosecution, and managing offenders.
| Ghana Police in Bentiu | Figures |
|---|---|
| Total Officers | 270 |
| Female Officers | 63 |
| Areas of Support | Civilian protection, aid delivery, rule of law, police training |
According to Sam Muhumure, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Bentiu, strengthening national institutions remains key to long-term stability in South Sudan.
“We do everything that we can to support institutional strengthening of the police, judiciary, and prisons so that the whole justice chain can work properly. That is the only way we can eventually leave behind strong institutions that guarantee security and the rule of law,” he explained.
UNMISS leadership noted the role of peacekeepers as South Sudan prepares for its first democratic elections. Deputy Police Commissioner Kaustubh Sharma highlighted that police support will be critical in ensuring safe elections.
“Protection of civilians, electoral support, strengthening the rule of law, and robust training of the national police service remain our core priorities. The medals awarded today should inspire all officers to go an extra mile to create a stable environment for a peaceful electoral process,” he said.