It’s official, KDF to join mission

By MOSES NJAGIH

The Senate has approved the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) for a peace-keeping mission in the volatile South Sudan.

The House, yesterday, sanctioned the sending of an extra 310 soldiers to join the 690 military officers already doing duty in the war-ravaged country under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Senators said it was crucial for the military to be moved to help quell insecurity in South Sudan and ensure the country returns to stability.

The UN had requested Kenya to send 1,000 soldiers to help secure civilians fleeing from the war zones and give protection to those heading to refugee camps.

Consequently, President Uhuru Kenyatta sought the authority of Parliament to be allowed to send the soldiers to join the mission, which has been operating in South Sudan since anarchy erupted.

Demonstrate respect

Moving the motion for the deployment, Majority Leader Kithure Kindiki said it was an honour for Kenya to have been granted the opportunity to assist in peace-keeping by the UN, saying this demonstrated the respect that the Kenyan military enjoys in the global body.

“Kenya is known as a giant in peace-keeping because of the professional and disciplined manner in which our soldiers have undertaken a similar responsibility in the past,” said Kindiki.

He revealed that many countries had expressed interest in sending their troops to South Sudan but UN declined, insisting that the priority be given to Kenya’s soldiers.

“The soldiers are not going in South Sudan as a fighting force but only to secure civilians running away from battlefields and ensure the safety of those wishing to move to refugee camps,” explained Kindiki. The Minority seconded the motion.