Ethiopian Peacekeepers in South Sudan Awarded United Nations Medal

Staff

Feb 26, 2026 · 2 min read · 55 views

Ethiopian troops deployed in South Sudan under the UN Mission have received official United Nations Medals, highlighting Africa’s leading role in peacekeeping operations.

JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN — 2026-02-26
Updated: 11:00 GMT

Ethiopian peacekeeping troops serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan were presented with United Nations medals in recognition of their service, Africanews reported, citing mission and military sources.

The medal ceremony was held in Yambio, drawing peacekeepers from all ranks, including front-line personnel and support technicians, according to the report. The event was attended by United Nations officials and local representatives who formally acknowledged the Ethiopian contingent’s contributions to the mission in the conflict-affected country.

During the ceremony, Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian, Force Commander of UNMISS, paid tribute to peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, highlighting the sacrifice that underpins the commitment to stability and protection of civilians in South Sudan.

Major Tigist Ferede, a mechanical technician with the battalion, said her work repairing vehicles helped sustain the mission, noting that safe movement supports broader peace objectives within communities in the region.

A UNMISS official described the medal award as recognition of the Ethiopian unit’s professionalism and dedication to implementing the mission’s mandate, according to Africanews.

At the ceremony, delegates expressed respect for the Ethiopian peacekeepers’ role in creating secure environments amid ongoing challenges in South Sudan.

Ethiopia is a consistent contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations across Africa. Ethiopian troops have served in multiple mission contexts, including South Sudan, where a long-running conflict has necessitated sustained international engagement to protect civilians and foster conditions for peace. The awarding of United Nations medals underscores the role played by African forces within multilateral peace efforts.

WHAT’S NEXT

The Ethiopian peacekeeping contingent continues its deployment under the UNMISS mandate, working with international and local partners to support stability and humanitarian access throughout South Sudan.