Kenyan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) have extended their security operations deeper into volatile territories, as the conflict-hit eastern region continues to grapple with persistent threats from armed groups.

According to an update shared by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on X on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the 5th Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5) conducted a long-range foot and vehicle patrol into Mayimoya village, located about 23 kilometres northeast of their main base in Mavivi. The operation formed part of MONUSCO’s broader strategy to strengthen civilian protection by creating a secure environment and limiting the mobility of militia groups operating in the area.

In its statement, KDF said the patrol was designed to reinforce MONUSCO’s second tier of civilian protection, which focuses on deterring armed actors and shrinking the space in which they operate.

“Kenya’s 5th Quick Reaction Force (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,” the statement read.

The peacekeepers spent the day sweeping through Mayimoya and neighbouring areas, engaging local leaders and reinforcing UN presence in a region long plagued by targeted attacks on civilians. KDF noted that showing credible force far beyond their fixed base remains essential in deterring militia activity.

“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,” the update said.

KDF added that the patrol served as a clear warning to armed groups that any attempt to harm civilians or restrict their movement would trigger a swift response.

“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,” KDF noted.

Before the troops set out, their commanders reminded them of the significance of such operations, stressing that every step taken into hostile terrain reinforces the UN’s commitment to safeguarding Congolese civilians.

“In briefings to the troops before 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,” KDF said.