"While UNMIL is maintaining peace in Liberia, it will not allow any disruptions in the process," Ms. Løj assured Liberians, referring to a recent armed clash in the area, between the people of Rock Town and Wetchoken, which left two persons dead and dozens injured. The situation was quickly brought under control by the local authorities and Liberia National Police (LNP), with support from UN Police and UNMIL troops.

Stressing the careful approach being taken in the readjustment of UNMIL forces, the UN Envoy said, "Drawdown does not mean we are rushing out of Liberia," adding, "the UN will continue to help the Liberian government reform the security sector, strengthen rule of law and successfully implement the new Poverty Reduction Strategy."

Ms. Løj pointed out that Senegalese troops had helped maintain peace and security throughout Maryland and parts of River Gee counties, including the monitoring of Liberia's borders to ensure that, "no cross-border activities undermine the hard-won peace."

Later, during a meeting between SRSG Løj and county leaders, County Superintendent, Mr. Sie-Teba Neufville, said his people were saddened to see the Senegalese Battalion leave. "The troops have won a special place in the hearts of the people through various activities, such as medical outreach programmes, rehabilitation of roads, bridges (including the one connecting Maryland and the Ivorian border), and support to the J. J. Dossen Hospital."

The Senegalese contingent commander, Lt.-Col. Babacar Seck, thanked the local authorities and citizens for their warm hospality and unwavering support, which he described as crucial for the Senegalese Battalion's success.

Since the Senegalese arrived in Maryland, they have treated over 2500 Liberian patients and provided medical services to hundreds more in remote, hard-to-access areas. The troops have also been active in mobilizing the youth of the county to become more involved in community-based activities. They played a major role in supporting the County Health Team in controlling and preventing the spread of Acute Watery Diarrhea during an outbreak earlier this year. Local and national authorities are expected to assume gradual responsibility for these activities

Attending the medal award ceremony were, Col. Babacar Ndiaye, head of a visiting delegation from the Senegalese Defence Headquarters, Maj.-Gen. S. A. Abdurahman, acting Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of Liberia, Brig.-Gen. Ezekiel Olu Olofinmuagun, Sector 1 Commander, Brig.-Gen. Ghulam Murtaza, Sector 2 Commander, and Brig.-Gen. Kassa Abebe Temesgen, Sector 4 Commander.