The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) joined Kenyans on Sunday, 20th October 2024, in commemorating the 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kwale Stadium, Kwale County. The event was presided over by H.E Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Defence Forces.
Led by the Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, the President inspected a Guard of Honor (GoH) mounted by the three KDF services: the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force (KAF), and Kenya Navy. A historic milestone was achieved during the event as Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Faith Mwagandi of the Kenya Navy commanded the GoH, making her the first female Senior Officer to lead a Guard of Honor at a national ceremony.
In his address, the Commander-in-Chief congratulated Lt Col Mwagandi, recognizing her achievement as a testament to the expanding opportunities for women in the military and other areas of national service.
He urged Kenyans to celebrate their diversity and unite in the collective effort to advance the nation. The President also commended the KDF for safeguarding Kenya’s territorial integrity and their pivotal role in the fight against terrorism.
The event featured a march-past by contingents from the KDF, including personnel from the Kenya Army’s 5th Battalion Kenya Rifles (5KR) and 15th Battalion Kenya Rifles (15KR), alongside other national security and law enforcement agencies. Following the march-past, spectators were treated to an aerial display by Kenya Air Force aircraft, showcasing the KAF’s capabilities in protecting the nation’s airspace.
This year’s celebration was themed “Boma Yangu Nyumba Yangu, Mimi Ni Shujaa” (“My Home, My House, I Am a Hero”), with a focus on the government’s Affordable Housing Program. The theme was illustrated through performances featuring songs, dances, poems, and skits by various cultural and entertainment groups.
In attendance were First Lady H.E. Mrs. Rachel Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Soipan Tuya, other Cabinet Secretaries, Defence Principal Secretary Dr. Patrick Mariru, Chief Justice Martha Koome, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani (host), Vice Chief of Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda, Service Commanders, General Officers, Senior Officers, Service Members, and members of the public.
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