A FRESH Tanzanian military police contingent has left for Lebanon for a year-long United Nations peacekeeping mission with commanders PLEDGING professionalism, discipline and support for civilians in conflict zones.

Speaking at a farewell ceremony in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Tanzania Peacekeeping Training Centre (TPTC) Commandant, Brig. George Itang’are, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to global peace efforts. “The Tanzanian government is committed to contributing to global peace and security and the military police’s mission in Lebanon is a testament to this commitment,” he said.

He explained that the officers have undergone intensive training since April this year to prepare them for deployment. The contingent will join fellow peacekeepers from other nations in efforts to stabilize Lebanon, which continues to grapple with regional tensions and security challenges.

He said the Chief of Defence Forces had delivered a strong message to the departing troops, urging them to maintain discipline and live peacefully while carrying out their duties. He stressed that the contingent was fully prepared and expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

Itang’are further noted that Tanzania’s military police officers were the first from the country to join United Nations peacekeeping operations in 2007. Since then, their outstanding record has earned them the trust of the UN, leading to an expanded role for Tanzanian peacekeepers in several conflict zones.

“They have made history by serving with integrity and since the unit was established, there has never been any case of misconduct,” he stated, underscoring the reputation the Tanzanian troops have built over the years.

He also reminded the soldiers of their solemn oath, saying they are expected to carry both the Tanzanian and UN flags with pride. “Our soldiers must safeguard the authority and strength of the United Nations as it was founded while ensuring they elevate Tanzania’s name through discipline and professionalism,” he said.

Contingent Commander, Military Police Lt. Col. Abdalah Rajab, assured the gathering that the group, drawn from intake 33/34 of 2025, was ready for the task ahead. “We are fully prepared to carry out orders from our military headquarters and to implement UN resolutions through the operation we are undertaking,” he said.

He said the deployment reflects Tanzania’s enduring role as a trusted partner in global peacekeeping, with its troops consistently praised for professionalism, integrity and commitment to the cause of peace.

Adding a personal touch to the ceremony, Capt. Fatuma Adam, one of the deployed officers, stressed the human dimension of the mission. “We will work together to maintain peace and assist women affected by conflict-related hardships. The challenges are many but we are ready to confront them and fulfill our mission,” she said.