By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, June 26, 2026 - Kenyan peacekeepers deployed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are simultaneously confronting an Ebola outbreak and persistent insecurity, with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) saying the dual challenge has underscored the evolving nature of modern peacekeeping operations.
According to the KDF, the 5th Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5), operating under the United Nations peacekeeping mission, has maintained security operations across the Beni region despite heightened health risks posed by the Ebola outbreak.
The contingent is deployed in the strategic localities of Mbau, Mandumbi and Oicha, where it continues conducting day and night patrols along the Beni-Mavivi-Mbau-Oicha corridor to deny the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and other armed groups freedom of movement.
Rather than scaling back operations, the KDF said the peacekeepers have integrated strict Ebola prevention measures into their daily missions, enabling them to continue protecting civilians while minimizing the risk of infection.
"Operating in the strategically important localities of Mbau, Mandumbi and Oicha, KENQRF 5 has sustained an uninterrupted operational presence despite the heightened health risks," the KDF said.
The military said troops now routinely wear masks and gloves during operations, practise regular hand hygiene, and disinfect vehicles and equipment after every patrol. Handwashing facilities have also been established at patrol bases as part of efforts to protect both soldiers and the communities they serve.
According to the KDF, these health measures have strengthened public confidence by encouraging local communities to adopt preventive practices against Ebola while maintaining cooperation with peacekeepers.
The military noted that community trust remains critical in gathering timely intelligence that helps disrupt the activities of armed groups operating in the region.
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The KDF warned that public health emergencies can create security vulnerabilities if armed groups exploit fear and weakened state presence. It said KENQRF 5 has deliberately maintained its presence in Ebola-affected communities to ensure residents remain protected from both disease and violence.
"Fear often creates opportunities for instability, particularly during public health emergencies. Recognising this reality, KENQRF 5 has deliberately maintained its presence in communities most affected by the outbreak," the statement said.
The KDF said the contingent's ability to respond simultaneously to security threats and a public health emergency has helped preserve stability across the Beni-Mavivi-Mbau-Oicha corridor.
It added that the deployment reflects the changing demands of contemporary peacekeeping, where military personnel are increasingly required to respond to humanitarian and health crises alongside conventional security threats.
"For KENQRF 5, the mission remains unchanged despite the evolving challenges. Their masks may soften their voices, but they do not diminish their determination," the KDF said, adding that the troops remain committed to protecting civilians through "steadfast service, discipline and compassion."