I had the pleasure and honor to meet the men and women of Sabuj Battalion or Nepbatt 15 who were ending their deployment as peace keepers in Congo. Last time I met similar contigent of peacekeepers was in Haiti in Dec 2009. I feel such a sense of pride and patriotism to be able to spent 5 days with these brave men and women. They represent our nation with pride and excellence. My humble grattitude to them. From as far as Lebanon, Haiti, and spread throughout countries in Africa, the work they perform as UN peacekeepers is heroic. Their service of pursuing peace, creating a more peaceful, stable, and secure place for people to live is an inspiration for me.

With the Inviation from Commanding Officer Tuk Malla and Major Krishna Khatri, I left for Congo on Jan 11th. I was met at the border town Kasindi by Captain Chin Bahadur Magar. We drove 56KM to to a town called Mutunga where the 15th battalion were stationed in the camp known as Beni.

We arrived at the camp about 2:30pm in the afternoon and were greeted by CO Malla and Maj Khatri. On Jan 12th, the 16th Battalion from Kathmandu arrived. The contigent was there to replace the Nepbatt 15. The next day, I had an opportunity to speak infront of the men and women from both battalion. Also, present were journalists from back home including NTV, Annapurna post and Nagarik. On Jan 13th, I was accompanied by Major Ramesh Gurung to the office of honorable local mayor whom I explained my mission to spread peace and protection of environment.

I had an incredible time to be in the presence of our service men and women. We can never thank them enough for their remarkable discipline, dedication and professionalism in their duties for global security and peace. On Jan 18th, I bid my farewell to my gracious hosts until we meet again.

From the bottom my heart, I can never thank them enough for their love and support. May God bless them and keep them safe.

Peace and Harmony, Furtemba Sherpa.