On 19 March 2025, the Force Commander of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Lieutenant General Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes, conducted a familiarization visit to Kenyan Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF) troops deployed at Lt Masulia Camp-Mavivi- in the North Kivu Province.

Upon arrival, Lieutenant General Gomes was received by KENQRF Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, who led him through a Guard of Honour inspection before engaging in high-level discussions with the contingent’s leadership.

During the meeting, Lt Col Seda expressed gratitude to MONUSCO leadership for its continued support and highlighted the critical role KENQRF plays as part of the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) in achieving MONUSCO mandate key of which is the protection of civilians from the threat of illegal armed groups.

He further affirmed that KENQRF remains highly motivated, committed to fostering good relations with the local population, the security forces of DRC as well as other Troop Contributing Countries.

In his remarks, the Force Commander commended the Kenyan troops for their exemplary discipline and dedication, particularly in joint warfare training conducted by the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) Headquarters in preparation for potential threats from armed groups. He stressed the importance of collaboration with local communities to enhance civilian protection efforts.

While speaking to the Kenyan troops, Lt Gen Gomes praised their resilience in the face of increasing security threats and urged them to prioritize intelligence-sharing during patrols to enhance operational effectiveness. He also reaffirmed MONUSCO’s commitment to ensuring troop welfare and readiness.

The Force Commander was accompanied by FIB Commander Brigadier General Richard Tobias Changanopanja, senior military officers, and a host of other UN officials.

KENQRF, part of MONUSCO’s Force Intervention Brigade, plays a pivotal role in stabilization efforts in the eastern DRC, engaging in joint operations with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and other troop-contributing nations. The unit continues to demonstrate operational excellence in countering armed groups and protecting civilians.