President Ruto Makes Major Changes in KDF Leadership

President William Ruto has announced several promotions, appointments, and transfers within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s military leadership.

Among the key changes, Major General John Maiso Nkoimo has been appointed as the new Deputy Commander of the Kenya Army. He takes over from Major General Mohamed Nur Hassan, who has retired from service after many years in the military.

In the Kenya Air Force, Brigadier Mohamud Salah Farah has been appointed Deputy Air Force Commander. Before the promotion, he served as the Base Commander at Laikipia Air Base.

The President also promoted Brigadier William Kamoiro to the rank of Major General and appointed him the General Officer Commanding Central Command. Brigadier Peter Kipketer Limo was also elevated to Major General and will now serve as the Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics at Defence Headquarters.

Major General Limo replaces Major General Edward Rugendo, who has been appointed Managing Director of the Defence Forces Welfare Services.

Meanwhile, President Ruto extended the term of service of Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Owuor Otieno by one year.

Kenya Army Promotions

Several senior officers in the Kenya Army also received promotions and new appointments. Brigadier (Dr) Francis Njoroge Kuria was promoted to Major General and appointed Director of Medical Services.

Colonel Mark Joseph Awala was promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Operations at Kenya Army Headquarters. Colonel Makonani Balata also rose to the rank of Brigadier and will now serve as Commander of Langata Garrison.

In another notable appointment, Colonel Asma Diramo Kofa was promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Provost at the Directorate of Oversight, Compliance and Accountability.

Kenya Air Force Changes

The Kenya Air Force also witnessed significant changes. Colonel Peter Karigih Kariuki was promoted to Brigadier and appointed College Secretary at the National Defence College.

Colonel Benedetta Margaret Kikechi was promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Research and Development at the Defence National Security Industries.

Lieutenant Colonel Bernadette Awar Eyanae was promoted to the rank of Colonel and appointed Colonel Plans and Programs at the International Peace Support Training Centre.

Strengthening Military Leadership

The latest appointments and promotions reflect the government’s efforts to strengthen leadership within the Kenya Defence Forces. The changes also provide opportunities for experienced officers to take on greater responsibilities as the military continues to play a key role in national security and regional peacekeeping operations.

The officers are expected to assume their new responsibilities immediately as they begin the next chapter of their military careers.