A new training ground for South Sudan’s peacekeeping forces officially opened at the Wun-Aliet Training Centre, northwest of the capital Juba.
The event marked the start of training for the second batch of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) Peacekeeping Mission Forces.
The ceremony was attended by a joint delegation led by SSPDF Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Dau Aturjong Nyuol, and Central Equatoria State Governor, Rabi Majung Emmanuel.
During the event, several leaders addressed the trainees, emphasizing the importance of their mission. Gen. Dau AturjongNyuol urged the new recruits to demonstrate “high level of commitment, resilience and perseverance” throughout their training.
Lt. Gen. Ashab Fahasal, Assistant Chief of Defense Forces for Moral and Orientation, reminded the trainees that their primary duty is to protect the people of South Sudan, their property, and the country’s territorial integrity.
Lt. Gen. Mario Kuol, Assistant Chief of Defense Forces for General Training, instructed the recruits to temporarily set aside their prior specializations to fully embrace the military training.
The opening also included a cleansing ritual performed by an earth master from the host community, a gesture of respect for the land.
Maj. Gen. Nyakiir Atem, a veteran and founding member of the historic all-female “Katiba Banat” battalion, praised the new female recruits and encouraged them to maintain their social values and integrity in the male-dominated environment.
For his part Maj. Gen. Dr. Ajak Bullen welcomed trainees with medical backgrounds, commending their nationalism for joining the uniformed services.
A representative from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) expressed pride in being a partner in providing training opportunities.
In his closing remarks, Governor Rabi Majung Emmanuel officially declared the training underway.
He reminded the recruits to maintain the highest military standards and to focus on personal career development in preparation for their future.
Meanwhile, Juba County Commissioner, Hon. Tete, also reiterated his commitment to providing land for military use as needed.
