Seventeen Zimbabwean police officers have joined the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in an effort to beef up the contribution of the mission.

The Zimbabwean press revealed that the officers, among them 10 women, would be joining the mission but did not expound on when they would be flying to Juba.

Zimbabwean Commissioner General of Police Godwin Matanga (pictured) urged the law enforcers to maintain the high standards of discipline to uphold the values of the force.

“Just like what I have always done, let me also say to the departing contingent, as you partake of the demanding task ahead, always be mindful that the main reason we are sending you to lands far away from your homes and families is to foster and sustain peace,” he was quoted by Bulawayo24.

He added, “Always take pride in the knowledge that your selfless contribution to peace will find its place not only in world history, but also in the hearts of generations to come.

“It is also noteworthy for you to remember that your colleagues that have served in many other UN missions across the world before you have set the bar too high. You should, therefore, bear in mind that we have sent you to be representatives of the organisation and indeed our beloved nation.”

The police officers are expected to fly to Juba to join a contingent of other peacekeeping soldiers and police officers currently serving in the mission in South Sudan. UNMISS was established to provide evacuation and security for victims of civil wars that have ravaged the country post-independence.