Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF) deployed as part of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) Thursday completed a three-day Training of Trainers (ToT) course in a ceremony that was presided over by Force Training Officer Lieutenant Colonel Marcelo Techera.
The training focused on interoperability and functions across departments.
It also provided a valuable status update on armed groups in DRC, operations on the protection of children in conflict situations, conflict-related sexual violence, and civil affairs among others.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, the Force Training Officer Lt Col Techera urged course participants to ensure that all soldiers in the contingent get the same knowledge so that they are able to undertake their duties within the required regulations of the United Nations.
In August 2021, a group of officers left for the DRC on a peace mission and were flagged off by Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lieutenant General Francis Ogolla at Embakasi Garrison.
The team had undertaken a five-month rigorous pre-deployment training that was geared towards making them mission ready ahead of the deployment.
Ogolla urged the team to uphold and surpass the exemplary performance registered by the first Quick Reaction Force (QRF) team.
He also reminded the team to protect civilians, and pursue peace in line with the United Nations (UN) Code of Conduct.
Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Peter Njiru, who was also present, urged them to make connections with soldiers from other countries.
“Take advantage of the tour of duty to also learn through interaction with another partner military in the mission,” Njiru added.
Other officials present during the event were; the Assistant Chief of Defense Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics (ACDF P&L), Formation Commanders, senior officers, officers and service members.