Kenyan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) have been awarded UN service medals in recognition of their exemplary performance during a year-long tour of duty.
On Friday, August 29, the Fourth Contingent of the Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 4), deployed under the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB), received the honours during a colourful medal parade presided over by MONUSCO Force Commander, Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes.
Lt Gen Gomes praised the Kenyan troops for their resilience and professionalism while operating in one of the world’s most complex security environments. He noted their efforts went beyond combat operations, highlighting their community engagement initiatives such as cultural exchanges, leadership forums, and religious outreach programs. “Your engagement with the local community has built trust and fostered relationships, while demonstrating the compassion of being a peacekeeper,” he remarked.
Brigadier Richard Tobias Chagonapanja, the FIB Commander, lauded the KENQRF’s operational excellence, revealing that the unit had been recognized as the best contingent within the brigade 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,” Brig Chagonapanja said.
Speaking on behalf of his troops, KENQRF Commander Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda expressed gratitude for the recognition. “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 stated.
MONUSCO was established on July 1, 2010, succeeding MONUC, which had been active since 1999 following the Second Congo War. Its expanded mandate focuses on stabilizing the DRC while supporting the government and protecting civilians.
The decoration of KENQRF 4 underscores Kenya’s growing reputation as a reliable contributor to global peacekeeping efforts.
