Kenya Signal 2 (KENSIG 2) troops in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have received prestigious medals for their exceptional and dedicated service.

The soldiers have been conferred with UN Service Medals to recognise their dedicated service in restoring peace and protecting civilians in DRC.

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldiers were celebrated in an event presided over by Brigadier General Ranjan Mahajan, Acting Force Commander of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Brigadier Mahajan heaped praises on the soldiers for their communication expertise, highlighting the consistent reports of excellent performance since their deployment.

The brigadier attributed the mission’s success to the ability of Kenyan soldiers to morph and adapt new communication technologies.

“Today, the United Nations recognises your gallant efforts as communication warriors who have supported MONUSCO operations, contributing to peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo since your deployment,” he said.

Brigadier Mahajan also recognised their work in data archiving for both military and UN Police in the Southern Sector, their CCTV installations in Goma and Beni, and the efforts of the Base Platoon and Field Technology Section (FTS) in securing Force Headquarters and supporting operations.

He argued that their agility helped other soldiers serving in their mission record tremendous progress in the peacekeeping mission.

The KDF soldiers also provided vital communication and IT support, ensuring connectivity between Force Headquarters and MONUSCO troops in and around Goma.

Other awards

In addition to the UN Service Medals, the KDF soldiers received the Force Commander’s Unit Citation, recognizing their significant contributions to MONUSCO.

Major Paul Chacha, Sergeant Gladys Chesimett, and Corporal Conrad Mghanga were also awarded Board of Honour certificates for distinguished service.

Kenya Signal 2 is preparing for rotation after finishing their tour of duty in DRC for the peacekeeping mission. Another unit will be deployed to the region after the return of Kenya Signal 2.