The Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Côte d'Ivoire and UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Mbaye Babacar Cissé, on Wednesday, 19 August 2015, presided over the medal parade ceremony of the 21st Togolese Battalion (TOGOBATT) of the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI). Some 469 officers and junior officers were decorated with the United Nations Medal for their service to peacekeeping.



« This special distinction is a symbolic recognition of their work, devotion and effort in the accomplishment of their Mission in working for stability and peace in Côte d'Ivoire », said Mr. Cissé, who congratulated the TOGOBATT peacekeepers on their professionalism, discipline and commitment in accomplishing their mission.



The Deputy Special Representative expressed the hope that the United Nations Medal will be a source of motivation for the peacekeepers of TOGOBATT in the execution of their present and future missions for the benefit of the people of Côte d'Ivoire.

Mr. Cissé also took the opportunity to remind the audience of the institutional responsibility of the United Nations with regard to its duty to protect civilians. « We have a duty to protect. Consequently we should ensure that our rapport with people is one of mutual trust. Therefore we should all concentrate on establishing the best possible conditions in accordance with UNOCI's mandate," said Mr. Cissé.

Earlier, Lieutenant-colonel Samey Simdokina, Commander of UNOCI's 21st Togolese Battalion thanked everyone for their appreciation of the mission carried out by his men. «We are very proud of our long tradition of participating in peacekeeping operations throughout Africa and the world, a tradition which has been forged with the passage of time. On this solemn occasion we take an oath to continue to carry the flame of the battalion so that the legend of the Togolese peacekeeper continues to be written in golden letter when the time comes for a final assessment» he added.



The Togolese Battalion commander concluded by outlining the duties of his 456 troops, including 17 women, adding that they started their mission to protect civilians, carry out day and night patrols, escort humanitarian convoys and support security, arms embargo and disarmament process on 1st February 2015.