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The joy shared by local authorities and peacekeeping forces during the inauguration ceremony for key transportation projects |
At the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), an area frequently affected by instability and severe shortages, the Vietnamese engineering unit has focused on addressing urgent local needs through practical projects. The repair of critical transportation routes and the restoration of the Banton Bridge, the area’s only bridge, later handed over to local authorities, have not only improved mobility but also contributed directly to local security and economic life.
For the Vietnamese military engineers, every road repaired and every structure completed represents Vietnam’s commitment to peace, responsibility, and international cooperation. Beyond physical infrastructure, their work has become a symbol of peacebuilding and humanitarian service in the region.
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Revitalized transportation infrastructure has become a driving force for improving civilian life in the operational area. |
Alongside engineering tasks, the unit has actively carried out humanitarian activities to support local residents. One notable contribution was the donation of 10 hospital beds transported from Vietnam to the Abyei Health Department, helping ease pressure on the area’s limited healthcare system. Vietnamese peacekeepers have also regularly delivered clean water to United Nations facilities and nearby communities during periods of drought, providing a vital source of support for local people.
The spirit of solidarity from Vietnam has extended across continents through humanitarian aid delivered directly to women and children in Abyei. At a local church, Vietnamese soldiers distributed necessities, school supplies, and clothing sent by people from home, bringing both practical assistance and emotional encouragement to the community.
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Vietnamese blue berets deliver clean water to local residents in Abyei. |
Lieutenant Colonel Tran Thanh Son, Deputy Head of the Engineering Company Rotation 4, said the unit always carries out its mission with respect and compassion. He emphasized that every act of support represents not only material assistance but also a message of solidarity and shared responsibility. According to him, by respecting local culture and maintaining discipline and humanity in every activity, Vietnamese peacekeepers are helping build a sustainable environment of peace and trust.
The humanitarian efforts of the Vietnamese blue berets have created a close bond with local authorities and residents. Beyond infrastructure projects, their concern for education and children’s future has left a strong impression on the local community.
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Children’s joy upon receiving meaningful gifts sent from across half the globe. |
After visiting schools and witnessing the dedication of Vietnamese peacekeepers firsthand, Abyei Minister of Education Karbimo Dut expressed appreciation for Vietnam’s contributions. He noted that Vietnamese personnel were not only helping repair roads and bridges to ensure children could travel safely to school, but were also supporting plans to renovate schools and provide books and pens for students. He added that he had previously learned about Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh through books and newspapers, and that the presence of Vietnamese peacekeepers reflected those humanitarian values in practice.
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Karbimo Dut, Abyei’s Minister of Education, acknowledges and highly appreciates Vietnam’s contributions to local education. |
Priest Archangelo Michael, representing the local church community, also expressed gratitude for the meaningful support provided by the Vietnamese engineering unit. He said local people saw not only the protective role of the blue helmets, but also genuine compassion demonstrated through concrete actions. Thanks to this sincere relationship, many residents now regard Vietnamese soldiers as trusted friends and companions.
Words of appreciation, such as “Thank you, Vietnam! Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh!” were heard repeatedly from local residents, reflecting the affection and trust they have developed toward the Vietnamese peacekeepers.
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Priest Archangelo Michael, on behalf of the parish community, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the practical support provided by the Engineering Company Rotation 4. |
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The innocent smiles of Abyei’s children alongside their Vietnamese blue berets |
In distant Africa, the smiles of Abyei’s children and the moments shared between local residents and Vietnamese soldiers have become the clearest expression of friendship and peace. Through practical and compassionate actions, the Engineering Company Rotation 4 continues to promote the humanitarian values associated with President Ho Chi Minh and the image of Vietnam’s peacekeeping force in the modern era.
By Hai Yen (from Abyei)
Translated by Tran Hoai