Troops from 19 Kenya Rifles, based at the Witu Forward Operating Base under Operation Amani Boni, joined the Kenya Red Cross Society in commemorating 60 years of humanitarian service during celebrations held in Witu, Lamu County.
Themed “Service to Humanity,” the event brought together local leaders, members of the public, humanitarian organizations, security agencies, financial institutions, and schools in Witu. Key participants included the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), Action Life, Equity Bank, IOME 005, and Together for Better, who gathered to reflect on the Red Cross’s six decades of humanitarian impact in Kenya. KDF’s involvement underscored its broader role in Humanitarian Civic Assistance (HCA)—especially in regions recovering from insecurity and marginalization.
The celebrations featured voluntary blood donations, the distribution of sanitary towels to schoolgirls, and the planting of over 600 tree seedlings across the area. KDF troops also conducted basic first aid demonstrations to equip locals with life-saving skills.
Speaking at the event, Captain Kenneth Kimathi Kirimi, Officer Commanding Witu FOB, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to humanitarian and development efforts.
“We are not only here to ensure security, but also to stand with the people in building a better, healthier, and greener future,” he said.
The Red Cross Regional County Coordinator for Lamu Branch, Mr. Abdulhakim Mahmoud, commended the long-standing spirit of volunteerism and unity that has defined the organization’s mission.
“For 60 years, we have walked alongside Kenyans through drought, disaster, and recovery. Today, we not only celebrate that history but also look ahead to deeper collaboration with communities and partners like the KDF,” he noted.
Local leaders and Red Cross officials applauded the military’s presence, highlighting its role in building trust and fostering collaborative efforts to promote peace, health, and development in previously insecure regions.
The celebration in Witu not only honored past achievements but also spotlighted the continued partnership between security forces and humanitarian organizations in strengthening communities across Kenya.
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