Troops from the Kenyan Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF), serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), recently conducted a long-range patrol across Mbau, Mandumbi, and Mangina areas within North Kivu Province. The operation aimed at reassuring local communities of their safety amid ongoing security stabilization efforts.
The patrol was conducted jointly with troops from the 33rd Rapid Reaction Brigade (RR) of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The joint operation underscored the continued collaboration between MONUSCO and FARDC in ensuring the protection of civilians, a core mandate of the UN mission in eastern DRC.
According to the KENQRF Contingent Commander Lieutenant Colonel Seda, the patrol which is part of many conducted in the recent past, served both operational and humanitarian purposes. Apart from maintaining a visible security presence in areas previously affected by armed group activity, the mission provided a platform for interaction between KENQRF leadership, local authorities, and residents. Discussions focused on security concerns, community resilience, and ways to enhance cooperation between peacekeepers and civilians.
Lt Col Seda reaffirmed KENQRF’s commitment to supporting MONUSCO’s broader efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in North Kivu. He emphasized that the engagement with community leaders would continue as part of the mission’s strategy to build trust and foster peaceful coexistence.
“We shall continue to work day and night to ensure that these areas are pacified, and this we shall achieve through the cooperation we have with the Local Security Forces as well as the citizenry,” he added.
Local residents expressed appreciation for the patrol, noting that such operations contribute significantly to deterring insurgent movements and boosting confidence in the ongoing peace efforts.
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