DBDC INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE PUBLICATIONS & EVENTS UK LTD

Ministry of Defence – Kenya © 2026

Kenya’s 5th Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5), deployed under United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, continues to protect civilians in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo while simultaneously responding to an ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Beni Territory region.

Operating across the strategically important localities of Mbau, Mandumbi and Oicha, the Kenyan contingent has maintained continuous security operations despite the heightened public health risks. Day and night patrols along the Beni–Mavivi–Mbau–Oicha corridor continue to deny the Allied Democratic Forces and other armed groups the opportunity to exploit the situation or regain freedom of movement.

Rather than reducing operational activity, KENQRF 5 has integrated comprehensive Ebola prevention measures into its daily missions. Peacekeepers now conduct operations while using protective masks, gloves and strict hygiene procedures alongside their standard military equipment. Patrol bases have established handwashing facilities, while vehicles and operational equipment are disinfected after every deployment, ensuring that force protection and public health measures are implemented simultaneously.

The contingent’s disciplined health protocols have also strengthened engagement with local communities. By visibly adhering to Ebola prevention measures during patrols and community interactions, Kenyan peacekeepers are helping build public confidence and encouraging local populations to adopt preventive practices that reduce the spread of the virus. These efforts have further reinforced cooperation with civilians, whose information remains essential in countering the activities of armed groups.

Recognising that public health crises can create opportunities for insecurity, KENQRF 5 has deliberately sustained its presence in communities most affected by the outbreak, ensuring that vulnerable populations remain protected from both the Ebola epidemic and armed militant activity.

The dual approach has helped preserve stability across the Beni–Mavivi–Mbau–Oicha corridor, demonstrating that modern peace support operations increasingly require military forces to address both traditional security threats and humanitarian emergencies.

Through its continued commitment, Kenya’s peacekeeping contingent underscores that lasting peace depends not only on military capability but also on resilience, discipline and humanitarian responsibility in support of vulnerable communities.