United Nations’ Congo peacekeeping mission MONUSCO’s Indian battalion (INDBATT) 18 MADRAS, recently constructed two markets in the villages of Loufou and Kirumba, 195 and 200 km respectively north of Goma, in North Kivu, through local resources. After rebels burnt down the market in Loufou in April 2009, the population requested the UN to assist them construct new sheds. Understanding the difficult conditions under which the villagers are living, 18 MADRAS undertook the task with the support of local workers.
The Indian Battalion also recently made wheel chairs for 45 children with physical disability in Goma and other neighboring towns. Another milestone in its continuing effort of providing invaluable civic assistance was setting up the ‘Eagle Automotive Training School’ at Focolari Camp, Goma, inaugurated on 18 Feb 2011 by Brigadier C P Mohanty, VSM, Commander, North Kivu Brigade. Batches of 25 students each will undergo a four weeks training capsule and be provided with ready reckoners and tool kits.
