Ethiopia, a nation renowned for its rich history and resilience, has long held an unwavering commitment to fostering peace both within Africa and across the globe. Despite its own trials and tribulations, the country has continually stepped forward as a beacon of hope, courage, and resolve. Its peacekeeping missions under the United Nations (UN) and African Union (AU) have become a testament to the country’s deep-seated values of solidarity and its unwavering belief in the sanctity of peace.
The countries heroic soldiers have distinguished themselves in global peace efforts, serving in conflict zones such as Korea, Congo, Somalia, Rwanda, Sudan, and Liberia. Their dedication to duty and ability to uphold their mission with honor has garnered international recognition. This legacy, deeply rooted in Ethiopia’s historical ethos, reflects a tradition of standing firm for noble causes.
The country’s unwavering resolve to advance Africa’s and the world’s cause has not and will not falter with time and has remained steadfast through changing governments. Its impeccable peacekeeping missions are a stark reminder of its strong, unflinching stand and are part and parcel of its dedication to noble causes.
As a key participant in UN peacekeeping missions across conflict zones and contributing significantly to regional and global peace efforts, Ethiopia has earned a strong reputation for mediating disputes and brokering peace in countries like Somalia and Sudan, further solidifying its role as a regional stabilizer. The country’s peacekeeping forces have made tremendous sacrifices in the pursuit of peace, often paying the ultimate price. Since the Korean War, the country has contributed significantly to international peacekeeping efforts. Its diplomatic resilience maintaining strong ties even with adversaries has been a hallmark of its foreign policy.
The country has played an indispensable role in curbing the prolonged conflict in Somalia, working to restore order, peace, and stability by countering the Al-Shabaab insurgency. Its contributions have been vital in helping Somalia, once a stronghold for Al-Shabaab, rebuild a functioning state and achieve self-reliance. Since 2007, Ethiopian forces under the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) have been key in combating Al-Shabaab and stabilizing the country. Ethiopia’s efforts in restoring peace and stability in Somalia have earned widespread recognition, with Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) soldiers receiving African Union medals in acknowledgment of their service.
The recent awarding of UN medals to Ethiopian peacekeepers under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is not merely a ceremonial act but a profound acknowledgment of the selflessness and dedication of those serving in some of the world’s most challenging conditions.
Alongside peacekeepers from South Korea and India, Ethiopian forces have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in South Sudan’s volatile regions, particularly in Jonglei and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.
The peacekeepers deployed in South Sudan under the United Nations Mission (UNMISS) have received UN medals for a variety of key contributions in South Sudan.
“While giving medals to uniformed peacekeepers may appear to be a standard procedure, it is an act that carries profound meaning. The Blue Helmets who receive them have proved their worth by demonstrating selflessness, commitment, and sacrifice, often under challenging circumstances,” said Lieutenant-General Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), at three recent medal-pinning events in Bor.
The 18th Ethiopian contingent conducted 124 short and long-duration patrols, including some by air, to deter violence against civilians. They have also completed about 1,000-foot patrols and provided force protection for countless missions undertaken by UNMISS and humanitarian partners.
That was the gist of the message delivered by Lieutenant-General Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), at three recent medal-pinning events in Bor.
“While it means hard work and sometimes daunting tasks, I feel privileged to contribute to the pursuit of peace. After 14 years in the military, the experience of helping create a better world is both rewarding and unforgettable,” said Bezawit Girum, a medical doctor in the Ethiopian army.
She was one of 68 women peacekeepers from Ethiopia and South Korea having her efforts recognized during the award ceremonies. In total, more than 1,700 military personnel – 643 from Ethiopia, 268 from South Korea, and 850 hailing from India – have been honored for their outstanding service in the name of peace since their deployment in April this year.
The 18th Ethiopian contingent’s significant role in keeping convoys of humanitarian aid safe as they bring life-saving supplies to those most in need was duly highlighted by the visiting Force Commander.
This recognition is a justification of Ethiopia’s valor and heroism towards maintaining global peace and rekindling hope for the desperate.
From the Korean War to modern-day conflicts, Ethiopia has played an indispensable role in mediating disputes and stabilizing volatile regions. Its efforts in Somalia, particularly under the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM), have been pivotal in countering the Al-Shabaab insurgency and helping restore governance. Ethiopian soldiers have paid the ultimate price, demonstrating unparalleled sacrifice for global peace.
Ethiopia’s commitment to peace transcends regimes and political shifts. Whether in restoring order in Somalia or earning accolades in South Sudan, Ethiopian forces have remained steadfast allies to the international community. Their valor and heroism remind the world that Ethiopia’s role as a peacekeeper is not just a legacy but an ongoing mission.
As history unfolds, Ethiopia’s torchbearers of peace will undoubtedly continue their journey, lighting the way for those in despair and reaffirming the nation’s unwavering resolve to promote harmony across borders. To sum up, Ethiopia has remained a steadfast partner to countries near and far even during periods of nation upheaval. Across successive regimes, the country has demonstrated unwavering loyalty and credibility in its efforts to foster peace and stability. This glittering track record will continue down the roads with the valor and determination of its troops.
BY DESTA GEBREHIWOT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024
