Kenyan troops deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo DRC under the United Nations Stabilization Mission in DRC (MONUSCO) carried out patrol duties in the general area of Mamove village within Beni-Mavivi territory.
During the four-day Long Range patrol mission, the troops were received by commanders of the Congolese National Army FARDC who assured KDF troops of their full support during the entire mission.
The KDF troops in close coordination with the FARDC conducted various patrols within Mamove village and its environs so as to deny the Allied Democratic Forces militias (ADF) the freedom of movement and offer security to the local population.
Speaking during the patrols, the Officer Commanding the Combat Support 2101 Regiment of FRDC Major Hategeka highlighted that ADF activities in the area had led to most of the villagers vacating their homes in fear of attacks.
Officials said the periodic patrols by FARDC and Kenya have helped to restore calm within Mamove.
During the patrols, the Kenyan troops also distributed clean water to the villagers as part of community outreach and had a chance to interact with the locals who appreciated the presence of the Kenyan soldiers working under MONUSCO.
The Chief of Operations Congolese National Army FRDC commanders were also shown some of the drone footage that was taken during the patrols.
MONUSCO took over from an earlier UN peacekeeping operation – the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 1 July 2010.
It was done in accordance with Security Council resolution 1925 of 28 May to reflect the new phase reached in the country.
The new mission has been authorized to use all necessary means to carry out its mandate relating, among other things, to the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel and human rights defenders under imminent threat of physical violence and to support the government of the DRC in its stabilization and peace consolidation efforts.
Kenya has remained committed to regional and international peace and security through participation in peace support operations for the last four decades.
Over the years, KDF troops have performed exceptionally well in Peacekeeping/Peace Support Operations, attracting international recognition for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to the achievement of mission mandates.
