President Ruto Replaces Ogolla With Key Promotions & Appointments

In a move to bolster the Kenyan military’s capabilities, President Ruto, the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, has announced a series of promotions and appointments effective May 2nd, 2024.

New Chief of Defence Forces

Lieutenant General Charles Muriu Kahariri takes the helm as the new Chief of Defence Forces, filling the vacancy left by the late General Francis Ogolla.

Strengthening Top Leadership

Major General John Mugaraival Omonda assumes the role of Vice Chief of Defence Forces, leveraging his experience leading the Kenya Air Force.

First Female Air Force Commander:

Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed makes history as Kenya’s first female Major General and takes command of the Kenya Air Force.

Additional Leadership Changes:

Major General Paul Owuor Otieno is appointed Commander of the Kenya Navy.

Major General Thomas Njoroge Ng’ang’a takes on a new role as Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance at the National Defence University.

Promotions to Major General include Brigadier Peter Nyamu Gitihinji (Air National Defence College Senior Directing Staff), Jattani Kampare Gula (Kenya Meat Commission Managing Director), and George Okumu (Kenya Ordnance Factories Corporation and Food Processing Factory leader).

Brigadier Samuel Kosgei Kipkorir is appointed Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force.

Strategic Reorganisation:

These changes, recommended by the Defence Council led by Cabinet Secretary Aden Bare Duale, aim to optimize leadership within the Kenya Defence Forces and enhance national security preparedness.