Kenyan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) through the Kenyan Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 4) have donated three semi-permanent kitchens to widows and orphans at Beni Cathedral in North Kivu Province.
The facilities, funded and constructed by the Kenyan soldiers, aim to support seven widows and thirty-six orphans displaced by ongoing insecurity in North Kivu and Ituri Provinces.
The handover ceremony, held at the Anglican Church (AC) of Beni Cathedral, was led by Bishop Cyrille Kambale Tavurima, who praised the initiative as a timely act of brotherhood and compassion.
“We are grateful to MONUSCO, through the Kenyan forces, for helping us address one of our greatest challenges since we started hosting these families two years ago,” Bishop Tavurima said. He urged continued support to ease the plight of vulnerable communities.
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, Commander of KENQRF, expressed pride in contributing to rebuilding society, emphasizing that small acts of kindness could make a significant difference.
“Though these families have lost loved ones, they have not lost hope or love. We are here as their extended family, committed to peace and coexistence,” he stated. He highlighted MONUSCO’s core mandate of protecting civilians and fostering peace.
Major Reuben Kyambo, KENQRF Community Engagement Team Leader, reaffirmed the commitment to civil-military cooperation, noting that such initiatives serve as a reminder that even amid conflict, humanity prevails.
Representing the widows and orphans, Maman Anne Kalivanda expressed deep gratitude and called for continued support. She also requested skills training in tailoring and culinary arts to enable self-sufficiency.
Corporal (Reverend) Thomas Mwangi, leading the Anglican Church’s efforts, underscored the importance of unity between churches in addressing community needs.
