KENYAN TROOPS IN DRC HAND OVER WATER TANK TO CATHOLIC PARISH IN NORTH KIVU

Kenyan troops serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) have today installed and officially handed over a new water tank to Catholic priests in Mbau, located in North Kivu Province.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Kenyan Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 4) – Roman Catholic – is part of ongoing efforts to support and strengthen community relations in the region. The priests, who frequently preside over Mass for the troops and serve as a vital link between the soldiers and the local population, had been left without a water source after their original tank was destroyed during a period of intense insecurity a while ago.

“When we first visited the parish, we were amazed to see how the priests had opted to give a new water tank they had acquired to the community instead of using it themselves for Parish Headquarters activities. It is from this act of generosity that we drew inspiration and decided to purchase a tank for the parish,” said Catechist Warrant Officer II Peter Mutune, who spearheaded the initiative.

Today, the troops led by their Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, oversaw the installation and handover of the new tank, which is expected to ease access to clean water for both the clergy and a school within the Parish Headquarters.

In his address to the clergy and congregants during the handover, Lieutenant Colonel Seda expressed gratitude to the Parish Headquarters for their close working relationship with the contingent.

“We all know that not all wars are fought with weapons. In fact, the greatest shield a soldier can use is prayer, and we are privileged to benefit from your spiritual nourishment and our collective prayer towards the restoration of peace,” he said.

The tank was received by Father Dominic Kalipi and Father Modesta Katembo, both of whom praised the Kenyan contingent for their consistent support and dedication to the wellbeing of local institutions.

“This gesture is more than just the installation of a tank,” Father Dominic said. “It is a symbol of solidarity and hope, and it brings blessings as it endears you—the peacekeepers—to the local community at large by forging trust and oneness,” he added.

His sentiments were echoed by the contingent’s Community Engagement Team Leader, Major Reuben Kyambo, who pointed out that the troops are always ready to sacrifice whatever little they have to bring a smile to the community.

The Kenyan contingent continues to play a critical role in peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts across North Kivu under the Force Intervention Brigade, focusing on both security operations and community support projects through Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) aimed at enhancing trust and resilience in conflict-affected areas.