The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced the deployment of a section of its troops to a United Nations-led peacekeeping mission following the completion of the final combat readiness.
Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Ketter, on Tuesday, January 6, visited Embakasi Garrison to conduct a final combat readiness inspection of the troops ahead of their deployment.
Ketter's visit was aimed at assessing the contingent’s state of readiness, boosting morale and conveying strategic guidance as the troops prepare to undertake a demanding peace support mission.
During his visit, the Kenya Army Commander received briefs from commanders on the ground regarding mission preparedness and welfare considerations of the soldiers.
Addressing the troops, Ketter commended them for their high level of discipline, professionalism and commitment demonstrated throughout the pre-deployment phase.
He reminded them that they will be representing not only KDF but also the nation and the wider region;,thus, there is a need to uphold integrity in their conduct.
"You are about to embark on a mission of great responsibility, one that calls for courage, restraint and unwavering professionalism," Ketter told the troops.
He went on to add, "The eyes of the nation and the international community will be on you, and I am confident that you will uphold the highest standards of KDF.”
In his speech, Ketter further emphasised the importance of mission readiness, teamwork and strict adherence to rules of engagement, noting that the operational environment remains complex and dynamic.
He urged the troops to remain vigilant, adaptive and united at all times. “Your training has prepared you well for this task. Trust your commanders, trust one another and always remember that discipline and cohesion are your greatest strengths in operations,” he added.
Ketter also reassured the contingent of KDF leadership’s continued support, particularly in matters of welfare, logistics and medical support while deployed.
"We remain fully committed to your welfare and operational effectiveness. As you go out to serve beyond our borders, know that we stand firmly behind you,” he stated.
KDF has always deployed its troops to UN-peacekeeping missions across Africa and the globe, with the recent deployment being a mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
However, in its latest update, KDF did not explicitly reveal the exact mission country, with some of the details of the deployment remaining private.
