It is in the news that Gamcoy-23 peacekeeping contingent deployed to the restive Sudanese region of Darfur have arrived home, after months of keeping peace in the trouble region.
The Gambian peacekeepers were operating under the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur.
Led by Lieutenant Col. Ebrima Krubally and consisting of soldiers of all ranks, the peacekeepers were deployed last September.
It is important to point out that Gambian contingents in peace keeping missions have been widely acclaimed for their high sense of professionalism in executing their respective duties.
The move to withdraw, however, comes following a United Nations resolution in 22 December, based on the progress made by the transitional government of Sudan in addressing the conflict in Darfur.
Meanwhile, the UN said in addition to taking on the responsibility of civilian protection, the Sudanese Government will also assume the primary role in supporting the peace process, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and supporting the mediation of inter-communal conflicts.
Since the starts of peacekeeping operations in the restive region of Darfur, Gambian contingents continue to raise the bar and even the country’s flag high especially among community of nations.
Within a short space of time, the country was able to carve a niche for itself when it comes to restoring peace in mission sites around the globe.
However, every mission runs under a mandate, and once the mandate is terminated, troops are not allowed to stay. We cannot but commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their high sense of professionalism.
We equally challenge these gallant soldiers to keep up the momentum.
Let’s remember that restoring peace and normalcy in any trouble region is a noble mission. It is only God, who can reward all those who contributed towards ensuring world peace.
It is a virtue that is even encouraged by all major religions of the world, to a least make an effort to restoring and propagating peace around the globe.
We welcome home, our gallant soldiers and officers for their bravery and high sense of professional exhibited while in keeping peace in Darfur.
"Well done is far more better than well said."
Gilsy Baba