Kenya Army Commander urges troops to maintain discipline for UN mission

The Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Ketter wants Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops preparing for United Nations peacekeeping duties to uphold discipline, professionalism and integrity as they represent Kenya on the international stage.

Lt Gen Ketter said the mission demanded courage, restraint and teamwork, noting that Kenyan troops would be operating in a complex and dynamic environment under close international scrutiny.

“You are about to embark on a mission of great responsibility. The eyes of the nation and the international community will be on you, and I am confident you will uphold the highest standards of KDF,” he told the troops.

He was speaking at Embakasi Garrison in Nairobi, where he conducted a final combat readiness inspection of the contingent ahead of deployment.

The visit marked the last phase of preparation before the troops depart for the peace support mission.

He received operational and welfare briefings from commanders on the ground and commended the contingent for its discipline and commitment during pre-deployment training.

The commander emphasised strict adherence to rules of engagement and urged the troops to remain vigilant and united throughout the mission.

Lt Gen Ketter also reassured the contingent of continued support from KDF leadership, particularly on welfare, logistics and medical services while deployed.

The inspection comes against the backdrop of Kenya’s long-standing role in international peacekeeping.

KDF has participated in more than 26 peace support missions across Africa, the Middle East and Europe since the late 1970s, deploying troops, military observers and senior commanders under both the United Nations and the African Union.

Kenyan forces have previously served in Namibia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali, Darfur and Lebanon, among other missions.

Kenyan officers have also held senior leadership positions, including force commanders and chief military observers.

Regionally, KDF has played a key role in Somalia, joining the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) in 2012 and later serving under ATMIS.

Kenyan contingents have been credited with stabilising key areas, protecting civilians and supporting humanitarian operations.

More recently, KDF units deployed under the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) have earned commendations and service medals for professionalism and effectiveness.

Lt Gen Ketter said the upcoming deployment builds on this legacy, noting that Kenya remains committed to regional and global peace through disciplined and professional military service.

The visit concluded with an interaction session with the troops.

He was accompanied by Embakasi Garrison Commander Brigadier Jackson Lesaiyo, formation commanders and senior officers.