The Ethiopian Federal Police Commission held a sendoff ceremony for senior Ethiopian police officers who are being deployed to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.
During the ceremony, Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael stated that the Ethiopian Police Force is becoming increasingly sought after by international organizations due to its professionalism and military capability.
He urged the officers being deployed to demonstrate the high standards of discipline and policing skills that the Ethiopian Police Force is known for when working alongside police officers from other nations.
The Commissioner General acknowledged that Ethiopia's international involvement in peacekeeping missions continues to grow stronger, and efforts will be made to include members of the police force who have retired without having the opportunity to serve in such missions in the future, honoring those who have served with distinction.
Commander Tegegn Agazh, Head of the Ethiopian Federal Police Peacekeeping Center, expressed gratitude to Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael for resuming the United Nations peacekeeping deployment, which had been suspended. He highlighted that in previous missions in Sudan, South Sudan, Abyei, and Haiti, federal and regional police officers successfully carried out their duties, upholding the positive image of their country and institutions.
The senior police officers being deployed for the peacekeeping mission were instructed to respect and honor the cultures and values of the communities they will serve in the host country. By doing so, they will ensure that the reputation of Ethiopia and the police institution remains high.
According to the Federal Police information, the number of female police officers participating in this peacekeeping mission is significantly higher than previous deployments, with 11 female officers being part of the contingent, marking a notable milestone.