In a spirited display of sportsmanship and regional brotherhood, troops from the Kenyan and Tanzanian Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) serving under MONUSCO took a two-hour break from their demanding peacekeeping duties to engage in a friendly football match at the KENQRF camp in Mavivi, North Kivu Province.
The match, which ended in a barren draw, was part of routine efforts to foster camaraderie, mutual respect, and cohesion among peacekeeping contingents which is pivotal in joint operations geared towards Protection of Civilians.
The event drew dozens of cheering personnel from both sides, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity rarely seen amid the pressures of military operations in eastern DRC.
According to KENQRF Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, the match was more than just a game but a family get-together.
“Sport is a powerful tool for team-building. This football match which you’ve christened ‘Mashemeji Derby’ strengthens not only our physical fitness but also the cooperation and friendship essential for the successful execution of the MONUSCO mandate,” he told the players at the final whistle.
The friendly fixture is part of a broader initiative by MONUSCO leadership to promote inter-contingent collaboration through non-combat engagements such as sports, cultural exchanges, and joint training.
As security challenges persist in parts of North Kivu, the sense of unity demonstrated today between Kenyan and Tanzanian troops sends a powerful message of solidarity and commitment to peace in the region. Both sides expressed hope that more such events will be held in the future to reinforce morale and operational synergy.
For now, the soldiers return to duty re-energized with minds focused on the collective pursuit of peace.
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