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Members of the Women’s Union of Engineering Company Rotation 4 present gifts to students at Abyei Secondary School. |
Members of the Women’s Union of Engineering Company Rotation 4 present gifts to students at Abyei Secondary School.
Recently deployed to replace their predecessors, the members of the Engineering Company Rotation 4 quickly adapted to the difficult conditions with professionalism and dedication. Despite cultural differences, language barriers, and limited resources, they have brought vitality and optimism to the mission area.
In an environment marked by hardship and insecurity, the female “blue berets” have affirmed their dual roles. They not only excel in their assigned duties in medical care, communications, and logistics, but also serve as a vital link between the U.N. peacekeeping mission and the local community.
To mark Vietnamese Women’s Day, the Party Committee and Chain-of-Command of the unit organized a special celebration, reflecting the creativity and determination of Vietnamese soldiers in Africa. Wildflowers grown by the women themselves served as meaningful gifts, while traditional Vietnamese cakes provided the familiar taste of home.
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The unit’s female members in traditional Vietnamese ao dai |
The unit’s female members in traditional Vietnamese ao dai
Instead of formal speeches, the women showcased the image of Vietnam through the graceful beauty of their sky-blue Ao dai (traditional Vietnamese long dress) under the African sun, turning the event into a vivid cultural display of friendship and solidarity.
Major Khuat Thi Huyen, a female member of the unit, said, “This is the most special October 20th of my life. While being far from home makes me miss my family, celebrating with my comrades who share the same mission for peace gives me strength. Seeing the smiles and hopeful eyes of local people reminds me that our small sacrifices are truly worthwhile.”
Since their first days in Abyei, the Women’s Union of Engineering Company Rotation 4 has carried out meaningful community activities, including meeting local children, surveying residents’ needs, and providing food, essential goods, and clean water for schools and villages. These sincere efforts have helped build lasting trust between Vietnamese peacekeepers and the people of Abyei.
The presence of Vietnamese female soldiers in Abyei demonstrates Vietnam’s strong commitment to U.N. peacekeeping operations and highlights the growing role of women in challenging military environments.
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Female members making traditional cakes to celebrate Vietnamese Women’s Day |
The “steel roses” of Engineering Company Rotation 4 continue the proud tradition of “Uncle Ho’s Soldiers,” representing the courage, compassion, and grace of Vietnamese women as they spread a message of peace and friendship across the African continent.
By Hai Yen (from Abyei)
Translated by Tran Hoai