By Doreen Johnston
Former United Nations peacekeeping commanders have been recognised for their leadership during the UN mission that helped stabilise Sierra Leone following its civil war, according to an opinion article published by local media outlet Truth Media.
The article highlighted the roles played by retired Kenyan Lieutenant General Ishmael Opande and retired Nigerian General Martin Luther Agwai during the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL), one of the largest peacekeeping operations ever deployed by the United Nations.
Opande served as force commander of the mission while Agwai served as his deputy during a critical phase of the operation between 2000 and 2003.
UNAMSIL at its peak deployed about 17,500 military personnel and was tasked with supporting the implementation of the 1999 Lomé Peace Agreement, disarming combatants, protecting civilians and helping the West African nation transition from conflict to peace.
According to the article, Opande’s leadership was instrumental in guiding peacekeeping operations and fostering trust among former warring factions during a period when the country’s institutions were still fragile after years of civil war.
“His leadership within UNAMSIL was instrumental in guiding peacekeeping operations, fostering trust among warring factions, and ensuring the protection of civilians,” the citation referenced in the article said.
Agwai, who later became chief of defence staff of the Nigerian armed forces, was credited with supporting operational coordination within the multinational peacekeeping force.
Sierra Leone’s 11-year civil war, which ended in 2002, left tens of thousands dead and displaced large sections of the population before a combination of international peacekeepers and local efforts helped restore stability.
The article said the experience of UNAMSIL demonstrates how peacekeeping missions can help move countries beyond conflict by combining security operations with efforts aimed at rebuilding trust and strengthening institutions.
Sierra Leone is widely regarded by the United Nations as one of the organisation’s successful peacekeeping missions, having helped oversee disarmament, national elections and the gradual return to political stability.
