Kenyan peacekeepers from the 5th Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5), deployed under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), joined hundreds of residents of Beni on Monday, December 8 for the weekly community clean-up initiative dubbed “Exercise Safisha Mji” (Clean the Town), locally known as “Salongo.”
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers worked alongside local volunteers to sweep streets, clear drainage channels, and collect solid waste in a demonstration of strong civil-military cooperation. The weekly event was graced by the Mayor of Beni Territory, Colonel Nyofondo Jakobe, who commended the participation of the Kenyan troops and highlighted MONUSCO’s dual contribution to the region.
“You not only protect civilians from armed groups but also ensure we live in a clean and healthy environment. This partnership means everything to us,” he said.
Major Simiyu of the KDF noted that the clean-up aligns with MONUSCO’s Force Directive on Environmental Protection and the United Nations’ broader commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of peacekeeping operations.
“A clean town is a healthier and safer town. By participating in Safisha Mji, KENQRF 5 contributes to both community well-being and sustainable peacekeeping,” he stated.
Residents expressed appreciation for the peacekeepers’ involvement. Local youth leader Mr. Karim Musa shared, “When soldiers who carry guns come to carry brooms with us, it builds trust and shows they truly care about our daily lives.”
Before the activity commenced, Contingent Commander Lieutenant Colonel Celestine Papa emphasized that such community engagement initiatives continue to strengthen ties between MONUSCO troops and local communities, noting that the protection of civilians goes beyond security to fostering a cleaner, greener and more united society.
Long-range foot and vehicle patrol
On Wednesday, December 10, KENQRF 5 conducted a long-range foot and vehicle patrol into Mayimoya village, 23 kilometres north-east of their main base in Mavivi. The operation directly advances MONUSCO’s tiered approach to civilian protection by delivering the mission’s second tier; that of establishing a protective environment designed to deter armed groups and shrink their freedom of movement and action.
During the day-long patrol, Kenyan peacekeepers swept through Mayimoya and its environs, engaged local leaders and demonstrated UN presence in an area prone to targeted armed groups’ attacks. By projecting credible force far beyond their fixed positions, KENQRF 5 signalled to armed actors that attacks or movement restrictions on civilians will meet rapid response, a core deterrent effect MONUSCO identifies as essential in eastern DRC’s fragmented conflict zones.
In briefings to the troops prior to this patrol, contingent leaders stressed that every kilometre covered reinforces the message that the UN and its Troop Contributing Countries remain committed to shielding Congolese civilians until national forces can fully assume responsibility.
