The outgoing Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Robert Kibochi today, 02 May 2023, made a transitional visit to the Kenya Navy (KN) accompanied by the CDF designate General Francis Ogolla and Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF) designate Lieutenant General Jonah Mwangi.
A transitional visit is a Kenya Defence Forces tradition whereby every outgoing CDF visits the three Services before he officially hands over command to the incoming CDF.
The main purpose of the visit is to provide an opportunity for the outgoing CDF to bid farewell to the troops as well as discuss the ongoing operations, strategic priorities and other KDF issues. It is an important step in the process of ensuring continuity of leadership and maintaining readiness and effectiveness of the Kenya Defence Forces.
During the visit, the outgoing CDF addressed the KN Officers and Sailors where he expressed his appreciation for their service and dedication in ensuring Maritime Security and the security of the nation at large.
“I want to thank the KN specifically for your tireless support and efforts in ensuring Maritime Security. I am sure you are working harder to continue achieving KN mission of safeguarding Kenya’s territorial waters. You have also performed exemplary well and proven your prowess in Sports in the last three years,” he said.
He emphasized on the welfare of Military personnel citing the plan by the Government to improve housing for the increasing number of Service Personnel.
General Kibochi later visited the ongoing construction of Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers mess at Kenya Navy Base (KNB), Mtongwe with the aim of reviewing the progress of the ongoing projects.
He extended his tour to the Kenya Navy Fleet Mkunguni Jetty where he visited the Kenya Navy Ship Shupavu which is in the advanced stages of her midlife refit undertaken by the Kenya Shipyards Limited.
In his remarks, the Commander KN thanked the outgoing CDF for his service to the KN and KDF at large.
“You have supported KN and other services with the necessary resources and provided funding for various projects that we rejoice today. The KN family will remember your effort and love for propelling KDF with resources and projects which you follow up very closely, ” he stated.
Present during the visit were Formation Commanders, Senior Officers and Service Members.
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