Rwandan troops serving in the Central African Republic (CAR), including Rwanda Battle Group and Rwanda Level Two Hospital personnel, joined residents of Bria and members of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) in a community clean-up exercise at Hidjama Primary School.
The activity took place on October 10, 2026, and aimed to improve hygiene at the school, providing pupils with a cleaner environment conducive to good health.
Officials who took part included Fertit Province Governor Thierry Évariste Binguinendji; Lt Col Nestor Soïmona, who commands FACA troops in the central-eastern region; Col Dr Christian Mukwesi, who heads the Rwandan contingent serving at the Level Two Hospital; and Lt Col David Ngabonziza, commander of Rwanda Battle Group VIII. Local leaders and residents also participated.
After the exercise, Binguinendji thanked the Rwandan troops and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for supporting the school clean-up and contributing to the welfare of local communities.
Nemengalia Franck Gael, a parent whose child attends Hidjama Primary School, also thanked the Rwandan troops for joining residents in the initiative. He said their participation demonstrated solidarity and a spirit of partnership with the local population.
Lt Col Ngabonziza highlighted the importance of cooperation between security forces and civilians. He said close collaboration with Bria residents was essential, noting that the community had welcomed the Rwandan troops and remained a key partner in maintaining peace and security.
The clean-up at Hidjama Primary School underscored the importance of cooperation between Rwandan troops, local authorities, security agencies and residents in building trust, improving community welfare and supporting peacekeeping efforts in Bria.
