Dominance in DRC: Kenyan Troops Sweep the MONUSCO Beni Olympics
The Fourth Contingent of the Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 4), currently serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), achieved a resounding victory at the recently concluded Beni Olympics. This multi-sport competition brought together various military contingents and civilian staff, offering a vital break from demanding operational duties and a chance to strengthen camaraderie among peacekeepers from diverse nations. The Kenyan troops showcased exceptional discipline, teamwork, and athletic prowess, dominating the competition from the initial events through to the final day.
Image courtecy of The Kenya Defence Forces
Unstoppable on the Track
The two-month-long competition, running from mid-September to November 8, culminated in a spectacular display of track and field dominance by the KENQRF athletes. The Kenyan troops proved virtually unstoppable in athletics, securing a clean sweep of the podium positions in the men’s 10km race. Their success was mirrored in the women’s events, where they clinched the gold medal in the women’s 10km event.
The sprinting teams were equally formidable. The Kenyan Troops captured gold in both the men’s and women’s 100 metres races, successfully repeating this double feat in the 4×100 metres relays. The sheer volume of victories in athletics effectively stamped the Kenyan Defence Forces’ well-known sporting prowess onto the international peacekeeping arena.
Shining Across Multiple Disciplines
The dominance of the Kenyan troops was not limited to the running track. They demonstrated remarkable versatility and fighting spirit across team and indoor sports as well:
- Volleyball: The team battled fiercely in an electrifying final against the Nepal Quick Reaction Force, ultimately securing a silver medal after a tense 15-12 finish in the fifth set.
- Football: The football team fought gallantly throughout the tournament, securing a commendable bronze medal in the category that was eventually won by the Malawi Battalion.
- Basketball: The team maintained a respectable performance, finishing third and adding another bronze medal to their impressive tally.
Their victory extended indoors, where their superior skills allowed them to sweep the podium in the pool competition and achieve exemplary results in popular board games such as chess, scrabble, and checkers.
Sports: Polishing Esprit de Corps
The successful execution of the sports events provided a much-needed morale boost, carefully scheduled during downtimes between intensified patrols and core operations dedicated to the Protection of Civilians, which is central to the MONUSCO mandate.
During the closing ceremony, MONUSCO Force Commander, Lieutenant General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, highly commended all participants, emphasizing that sports are crucial for fostering teamwork and unity among peacekeepers. He noted that such activities not only enhance mission readiness by improving physical fitness but also “polishes our esprit de corps,” a vital component for success in their joint pursuit of peace.The KENQRF Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, echoed these sentiments, expressing immense pride in the Kenyan troops for hoisting the Kenyan flag high.
He affirmed the continued commitment to empower sporting activities among the contingent, understanding that a fit and disciplined force is always a capable force. The professionalism and discipline exhibited by all participants throughout the games were highly applauded by senior MONUSCO officials, including the Force Chief of Staff Brigadier General Givens Sichali and the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) Commander, Brigadier General Alexander Masangura.
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