Kenyan police peacekeepers serving under the United Nations mission in South Sudan were awarded medals for playing key roles in protecting civilians, facilitation of humanitarian assistance, securing key installations, and supporting peace efforts at the community level.
The Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, on Saturday February 7, 2026, applauded the Kenyan police contingent serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) during a medal-pinning ceremony held at the UNMISS compound in Juba, South Sudan.
In remarks delivered on his behalf by the Kenyan Contingent Commander, Mr.Mbatian Kantai,SSP, the Inspector-General commended the officers for their professionalism, discipline, and unwavering dedication to duty in a complex operating environment.
“You have facilitated humanitarian assistance, protected key sites, and fostered dialogue at the grassroots level. Each day, through your actions, you have embodied the core principle of UNMISS: to protect civilians and build durable peace,” read the Inspector-General’s message.
The colourful ceremony brought together senior UNMISS leadership, members of the diplomatic community, and distinguished guests, underscoring the strong partnership between Kenya and the United Nations in advancing peace and stability in South Sudan.
A total of 27 Kenyan police officers were awarded the United Nations Service of Peace Medals in recognition of their outstanding service as part of the International Police Component in UNMISS.
The medals were presented by the Guest of Honour, the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Police Commissioner, Mr.Jeremiah Togba Massaqoui.
Also in attendance were the Representative of the Kenyan Ambassador, Mr.Benedict Watamba; Major General (Rtd) Aggrey Owino (Chairman, RJMEC); UNPOL senior leadership; and the Defence Attaché at the Kenyan Embassy in South Sudan, Col Martin Owino.
Among the recipients were the UNMISS UNPOL Gender Adviser, Ms.Millicent Alambo,SSP, and the UNPOL Team Leader of the Anti-Cattle Raiding Specialized Police Team, Mr.Kioko Munyambu,SSP
Others included, Mr.Magongo Amadiva,SSP, Mr.Kipsang Kipkazi,SP, and Mr.Silas Kiptoo, ASP, among others, whose roles reflect Kenya’s continued contribution to specialised policing, protection, and community-focused interventions within the mission.
The award of the medals marks a major milestone for the contingent and affirms the National Police Service’s commitment to international peacekeeping.
The successful event celebrated not only individual achievement but also the collective dedication of Kenyan officers to promoting peace, security, and the protection of civilians in South Sudan.
