The distinguished service of 23 police officers who have served with the UN Mission in South Sudan since November last year has been recognized.
The United Nations (UN), feted the officers from the Kenyan Police Service following their exemplary service in South Sudan.
The officers who served in different capacities including community policing and protecting refugees, many of whom are women and children received the honour from Special Representative of the Secretary-General, David Shearer.
[caption caption="The police officers being awarded"]
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In his address, Shearer praised the officers for serving with integrity despite the dangerous work environment and operating from remote locations.
"They are not easy places to be and when you’re in such an environment you realize how challenging being far away from your loved ones can be," Shearer stated.
On his part, Kenyan Ambassador to South Sudan Clelland Leshore indicated that the government is committed to supporting their neighbours including South Sudan build lasting peace.
"It is our hope that the leadership in South Sudan will rise above all parties and interests in order to pursue peace for the people of South Sudan," he said.
One of the officers Chief Inspector Irene Kerubo noted that "It has been quite an experience learning how the conflict-affected them (Sudanese nationals) getting an opportunity to guide and counsel them."
President Uhuru Kenyatta has in the past expressed his full commitment to ensure a lasting solution to the Sudan conflict.
[caption caption="Police officers assisting members of the public"]
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Uhuru alongside other African leaders travelled to Addis Ababa on June 21, where they witnessed a crucial peace treaty between President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar, their first face-to-face engagement in nearly two years.
