The Kenyan senate has unanimously approved the deployment of 310 additional troops for the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan. This follows on a UN request to deploy more troops to reinforce the mission.
The soldiers will join 690 troops already on duty in South Sudan, bringing to 1,000 the number of Kenyan soldiers serving with the UN 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 Star reported
While moving the motion, Senate majority leader Kindiki Kithure said the troops will be deployed in the town of Wau on what he described as “static posture,” the Standard reported.
“The soldiers will not be a fighting force but they are mandated to defend civilians and provide a safe corridor for those seeking refuge in UN camps,” he said.
Minority leader Moses Wetang’ula supported the deployment and paid special tribute to UNMISS for the role they have played in peacekeeping missions across the world.
He said time has come for Kenya to play a diplomatic role commensurate with its status in the region.
“We must rise to the occasion and help our brothers in South Sudan as the big brothers in the region,” Wetang’ula was quoted as saying.