the Comoros
16 March 2006
The first group of 55 members of the South African National Defence Force
(SANDF) will deploy on Friday, 17 March 2006, to the Union of the Comoros under
the auspices of the African Union (AU) to support the Comorian National
Reconciliation Process with the elections and inauguration of the Union
President.
A larger group of about 300 soldiers will deploy in phases next week to the
Comoros to be part of an AU Force that consists of integrated military and
police elements to secure the presidential election. The integrated elements
will be deployed on the three main islands from where they will conduct typical
peace mission activities and civilian police actions.
The Mission Commander is Colonel George Sibanyoni and the SANDF contingent
consists of one company of 1 Parachute Battalion under the command of Lt Col
Charlie Rodgers, South African Air Force and South African Military Health
Service elements.
Enquiries please contact:
Mr Sam Mkhwanazi
Cell: 083 638 0858
Media Liaison Section
Issued by: Department of Defence
16 March 2006
Source: Department of Defence (http://www.dod.mil.za/)
