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.