Brig. Gen. Gebremikael Beyene who took over as Chief of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM) of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) arrived in Abyei on 11 June 2019 to conduct a week-long familiarisation visit. The JBVMM Chief was received by the Deputy Force Commander and Acting Head of Mission Brigadier General Mulu Girmaye and was also briefed on operational aspects at the UNISFA Force HQ in Abyei.
The JBVMM Chief, accompanied by the Deputy Force Commander, also carried out an orientation visit to all the three sectors including important areas in UNISFA’s operation namely Farooq, Diffra, Dukra, Antony, and Banton, where he was briefed by respective Battalion Commanders. He also visited Amiet Market, a socio-economic hub of two main communities in Abyei, the Dinka and the Misseriyas. The visit also included a formal interaction with the members of the National Monitors of Sudan and South Sudan.
The mandate of the JBVMM is to ensure peace and safety in the demilitarized zone along the border between Sudan and South Sudan. He commended the efforts of UNISFA in maintaining peace and stability in the region and also for supporting various developmental projects in support of the local population. Brig Gen Gebremikael Beyene departed for JBVMM HQ at Kadugli on 17 June 19.