KENYAN TROOPS RECEIVE UN MEDALS OF HONOUR FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE IN DRC

The Fourth Contingent of the Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 4), serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), has been awarded UN service medals in recognition of its outstanding performance during a one-year tour of duty under the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB).

The colourful medal parade was held at Camp Lt Masulia in North Kivu Province and was presided over by MONUSCO Force Commander, Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, who commended the Kenyan peacekeepers for their professionalism and commitment.

“We have witnessed your resilience in this challenging environment. In addition, your engagement with the local community through cultural exchanges, key leadership engagements, and religious outreach programs has built trust and fostered relationships with the community, while demonstrating the compassion of being a peacekeeper,” said Lt Gen Gomes.

The FIB Commander, Brigadier Richard Tobias Chagonapanja, who also addressed the parade, lauded the KENQRF for its operational excellence, pointing out that KENQRF emerged the best Contingent within FIB in the first Quarter of 2025.

“The Kenyan contingent has demonstrated remarkable agility and reliability. Whenever called upon, you have responded swiftly and effectively, embodying the true spirit of a Quick Reaction Force,” he remarked.

In his speech, the KENQRF Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, expressed gratitude on behalf of the troops. “These medals are not just a symbol of service but also a reminder of the sacrifices we have made jointly with the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the local security forces, and our partners within MONUSCO. We are humbled by the trust placed in us and proud to have flown the Kenyan flag high under the banner of the United Nations,” he said.

The event featured a colourful parade mounted by the Kenyan troops, with entertainment provided by local cultural groups and performances by the Malawi Battalion Band (MALBATT Band). Additionally, the KENQRF 4 Cultural Team delivered a lively dance session, followed by a display of tactical prowess by the KENQRF Combatives Team.

During the occasion, a number of Military Observers and Military Staff Officers were also awarded medals of honour. The event brought together senior MONUSCO officers, Officers and Service Personnel, civilian dignitaries, local leaders—including chiefs—as well as a number of members of the local population.