Arrival in Katanga and Protection of the Balubakat Refugee Camp
Upon arrival in Katanga, we were tasked with guarding and protecting the Balubakat refugee camp, which consisted of Balubas from Katanga, a tribe opposed to Tshombé. We relieved a Swedish battalion that was returning to Sweden.
These Balubakat refugees, who had come under the protection of the United Nations, were settled in what was once one of the most beautiful parks in Africa. At one point, their numbers had swelled to 80,000 refugees, who required surveillance and occasional substantial food aid.
Other Contingents in Katanga
Other contingents were present in Katanga, with the Indian contingent being the largest in number, including a brigade of Gurkhas, who were renowned for being formidable warriors. The command of the UN forces in Katanga was led by Indian Major General Prem Chand, while the head of civilian operations was Argentine José Rolz Bennet, who would later be appointed as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Relations with the Local Population
Our African background and proficiency in French enabled us to establish excellent relationships with the local population, including the Congolese (Katangese) and Europeans, primarily Belgians. We were quickly accepted by all: the locals, who were dealing with Africans like themselves, and the Europeans, who understood that we were there to maintain peace and security.
Mission and Responsibilities
Our mission became even more critical, serious, and delicate after December 1962, following the collapse of the Tshombe regime, until our definitive return to Tunisia in March 1963. We were obliged to assume the tasks previously assigned to the police, including:
- Ensuring the security of the entire population in the city of over 100,000 inhabitants.
- Protecting persons and property.
- Preventing looting and settling of scores during a period of uncertainty, anarchy, and total absence of legal authority.
- Protecting minorities from acts of vengeance.
Success and Recognition
This mission, far from being easy for military personnel accustomed to combat exercises and maneuvers, was remarkably fulfilled by our men, who earned praise, thanks, and recognition from the UN, as well as from the black and white populations, including the Congolese (Katangese) and European communities.
Departure and Legacy
The 14th Battalion was repatriated in its entirety in March 1963, with the last plane landing in Tunis-Carthage on March 8. These memories, 62 years old, are still felt by all who experienced them as if they were from yesterday. We pay tribute to our fallen comrades, particularly Lieutenant Khelifa Dimassi, the first martyr of our promotion, and Sergeant-Chef Belkhiria.
Current Presence of Tunisian Soldiers in Peacekeeping Missions
It is with immense pleasure and pride that we note today that the Tunisian soldier is present in all corners of the globe, wherever the international community calls, for the maintenance of peace and security. Whether in the former Spanish Sahara, Cambodia, Rwanda, Congo, or elsewhere, our brave and valiant soldiers have been admirable in their seriousness, honesty, and competence, despite the difficulties and sacrifices. They have upheld the UN and Tunisian flags, to the satisfaction of the UN and the protected or assisted populations.
Conclusion
We, their former comrades in this noble mission, pay homage to them, expressing our admiration and pride in the results achieved and encouraging them to perpetuate the great qualities of the Tunisian soldier.
