KDF Day on October 14, 2024, was celebrated with pomp and ceremony at various Service Headquarters, Brigades, Formations, and camps across Kenya and beyond.
The event, themed “One Force, Mission Ready: Unity in Action for National Security and Development,” is an annual tradition that honors the men and women in uniform — those currently serving, retired, and those who have paid the ultimate price defending Kenya.
At Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, Brigadier Bernard Korir, Commandant of the Camp Admin Unit (DHQ-CAU), emphasized the significance of the occasion.
He described it as a time to celebrate the selfless acts of the gallant heroes and heroines who defend the nation every day.
“KDF Day is a reminder that as a unified force, we stand strong and ready to defend our country, protect our people, and contribute to national development. This year’s theme underscores the power of unity in action,” he stated.
During celebrations at Moi Air Base (MAB), Wajir Air Base (WAB), and the 8th Mechanized Infantry Brigade (8MIB), soldiers extended their events by visiting local communities.
At MAB, Base Commander, Brigadier Bernard Oluoch highlighted that KDF Day honors fallen soldiers, their families, and those who continue to serve.
To commemorate the day, MAB soldiers visited Huruma Children’s Home, donating essential items such as sugar, cooking oil, soap, flour, rice, and diapers. This gesture demonstrated KDF’s commitment to both national defense and uplifting the lives of local communities.
Soldiers at WAB and 8MIB, led by Deputy Base Commander Colonel Gideon Musyoki and Deputy Commander Colonel Gideon Bebora respectively, conducted a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) outreach to Wajir School for the Deaf. They donated food and water supplies, addressing critical needs faced by the school’s more than 300 students.
In Eldoret, soldiers from 9 Kenya Rifles (9 KR) based at Moi Barracks, under the leadership of Brigadier John Kipya, Commandant Defence Forces Recruit Training School (DFRTS), donated blood to support KDF medical facilities.
Brigadier Kipya encouraged personnel to join welfare organizations within the KDF.
“Let us keep portraying a good image of KDF by being good ambassadors to our families and the nation at large,” he said.
Elsewhere, KDF troops under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU), led by Major George Makai of Learoni Forward Operating Base (FOB), donated assorted food items to residents of Loibor Ngare community in Samburu County. Major Makai emphasized that the day serves as a reminder of the KDF’s unwavering commitment to national peace and security.
During the event, KDF troops donated maize flour, rice, tea leaves, and sugar to help residents affected by recent heavy rains that damaged local farms.
Kenya Navy Base Manda Bay and soldiers from Operation Amani Boni (OAB) also participated in the celebrations, which included a football match between teams from the Navy Base and OAB, with the Navy team emerging victorious. Brigadier Joel Maiyo, Commander of OAB, delivered a speech on behalf of the Chief of the Defence Forces, expressing gratitude to the sailors and the OAB team for their dedication to honoring fallen retired and serving heroes and heroines.
Across the region, KDF troops deployed under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) marked KDF Day at Mavivi Camp in Beni. The event was characterized by song and dance, celebrating the contributions of all KDF service personnel working towards peace globally. Lieutenant Colonel Simon Seda, the Contingent Commander, read the Chief of the Defence Forces’ message, underscoring the importance of esprit de corps in peace support operations.
“To be part of the KDF is a privilege. We are entrusted with protecting not only our nation but also the lives of others. Here in the Democratic Republic of Congo, our role under MONUSCO is critical. We are part of a global effort to restore peace, bring hope to the innocent, and protect the vulnerable. Our service reflects our commitment not only to Kenya but to the international community,” he said.
KDF Day serves as a reminder of the military’s mission to protect and serve all Kenyans, demonstrating that true strength lies in compassion and community engagement.
The event showcases KDF’s dedication to community service, affirming that military strength goes hand in hand with support for the most vulnerable.
Add Comment