This practical activity was held in celebration of the 81st anniversary of the founding of the Viet Nam People’s Army, promoting the tradition of “Uncle Ho’s Soldiers” — being close to the people, helping the people — and demonstrating the spirit of solidarity and humanity of Viet Nam’s peacekeeping force.
With hundreds of practical gift packages, including daily necessities, school supplies, and clothing, handed directly to residents and children, the programme conveyed the heartfelt sentiments of Vietnamese peacekeepers to the local community.
The gifts also included clothing donated by people in Viet Nam. Representing the donors, Pham Hai Ly travelled from Viet Nam to Abyei to take part in the programme and personally present the items to local residents. Though modest in material value, the gifts carry deep affection, reflecting the spirit of mutual support and compassion of the Vietnamese people and helping to ease some of the daily hardships faced by the people of Abyei.
Lieutenant Colonel Tran Thanh Son, Deputy Commander of Vietnam’s Engineering Unit No. 4, stated: “We organise this programme with great respect and heartfelt sincerity. We always remember President Ho Chi Minh’s teaching: ‘Helping others is helping ourselves.’ Each gift is not only material support but also a message of companionship and friendship. We are committed to continuing to support, build, and strengthen a sustainable relationship with the people of Abyei, so that the spirit of Uncle Ho’s Soldiers — ‘wherever we go, the people remember; wherever we stay, the people cherish’ — continues to spread.”
The gift-giving activity was made even more meaningful as it was built on a solid foundation of tangible support for the people of Abyei. Within less than three months of assuming their mission, Viet Nam’s Engineering Unit No. 4 has not only successfully fulfilled all assigned tasks but has also promptly addressed several pressing community bottlenecks. A notable example is the repair and upgrading of the vital Banton Bridge — a key transport route with a crucial impact on security and socio-economic life across the entire area.
Father Archangelo Michael, representing the Catholic Church in Abyei, shared emotionally: “In the Vietnamese soldiers, we see not only protective strength but also unconditional love expressed through concrete actions. You have brought our children not only books and supplies, but also firm faith in a brighter future. Thanks to this close bond, the people of Abyei regard the Vietnamese soldiers as family members and trusted companions.”
