James Katunge grew up wanting to be a teacher.

Committed to achieving this dream, James completed a bachelor’s degree in business education from a university in Uganda. Life, however, had other plans for him.

One of 238 police officers that make up the Rwanda Formed Police Unit based in Malakal, South Sudan, James’ journey is one of determination and resilience.

“I was born in Tanzania. My parents fled the conflict in Rwanda at its peak and sought refuge there,” says the officer, “We later moved to Uganda.”

James and his family were fortunate and escaped one of the darkest episodes in the history of Rwanda, having managed to leave the country before the genocide. Other relatives and loved ones weren’t that lucky.

But his struggles were only beginning as he was unable to find a job in Uganda despite being qualified. He and his friends then made a tough call – they were going to return to Rwanda.

“At the time, President Kagame was leading the country and he appealed to the Rwandan diaspora to return and rebuild the country,” reveals James. “I was deeply moved and decided to heed his call. That was also when I made the decision to become a police officer – serving and protecting people seemed to be the way I could best contribute to my my nation.”

James joined the police force as a cadet and quickly rose through the ranks to his current position as Inspector of Police. His education set him apart and his fluency in English meant that his application to join UNMISS was immediately accepted. In Malakal, he serves as the unit’s Liaison Officer.