In a significant move aimed at bolstering Kenya’s Defence Forces, President William Ruto today announced a series of high-profile appointments, including the appointment of General Charles Muriu Kahariri as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). The announcement, made on Thursday, May 2, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s military leadership.
General Kahariri, who previously served as Lieutenant General and Vice Chief of Defence Forces, steps into his new role following the passing of General Francis Ogolla. Having already served as Acting CDF, General Kahariri’s elevation to the rank of General underscores his extensive experience and leadership within the military ranks.
In a statement released by the presidency, President Ruto invoked section 9(2)(a) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act to officially appoint General Kahariri as the Chief of Defence Forces. The statement highlighted President Ruto’s confidence in General Kahariri’s abilities to lead the armed forces effectively.
Alongside General Kahariri’s appointment, Major General John Mugaravai Omenda has been named as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces, a position that comes with the promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General. Major General Omenda, who previously served as the Kenya Air Force Commander, brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to his new role.
Furthermore, President Ruto announced key changes within the Kenya Air Force and Kenya Navy. Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed has been appointed as the new Commander of the Kenya Air Force, succeeding Major General Omenda. Additionally, Major General Paul Owuor Otieno has been tasked with leading the Kenya Navy as its new Commander.
The president also made notable appointments within the National Defence University and National Defence College. Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng’ang’a assumes the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration and Finance at the National Defence University, while Brigadier Peter Nyamu Githinji has been promoted to Major General and appointed as Senior Directing Staff, Air at National Defence College.
In a move aimed at enhancing efficiency and productivity, Brigadier Jattani Kampare Gula has been appointed as the new Managing Director of the Kenya Meat Commission, following his promotion to the rank of Major General. Similarly, Brigadier George Okumu has been promoted to Major General and appointed as the Managing Director of the Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation and Food Processing Factory.
Additionally, Brigadier Samuel Kosgei Kipkorir has been entrusted with the role of Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring robust leadership across all branches of the Defence Forces.
These appointments reflect President Ruto’s dedication to strengthening Kenya’s Defence Forces and ensuring they remain at the forefront of safeguarding national security. With a new leadership lineup in place, the Defence Forces are poised to tackle emerging challenges and uphold their mandate of protecting the nation and its interests both at home and abroad.