New UN peacekeeping chief visits Darfur

Says while a lot has been achieved by the UNAMID, much remains to be done for progress of the peace processHervé Ladsous, the newly appointed United Nations under-secretary-general for peacekeeping operations, arrived in Darfur on Sunday as part of his first official visit to a field operation.On his field tour, Ladsous said that the United Nations African Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) had made “remarkable achievements” in reducing overall violence in Darfur, increasing support for humanitarian assistance and in the quick impact projects (QIPs).“When we remember the horrors and violence of seven years ago and look at the situation now, I think you can be proud—of your compassion, your energy and your sacrifices,” he said at a town hall meeting of several hundred staff and uniformed UNAMID personnel.The UN department of peacekeeping operations (DPKO) supports 16 peacekeeping missions around the globe, of which the UNAMID is the largest.USG Ladsous also met with the Wali (or governor) of North Darfur, Osman Mohamed Yousif Kibir and several representatives of El Fasher civil society: “I met an array of Darfuris there dedicated to the peace process and that was heartwarming. However much remains to be done for the peace process, and major efforts are underway to make it all inclusive.”