On 24th June 2024, the Commander of the Kenya Air Force (KAF), Major General Fatuma Ahmed, representing Chief of the Defence Forces Gen Charles Kahariri, presided over a solemn Requiem Mass in honour of the late Major Evander Ochieng Amonde and Lieutenant Daniel Mutinda Nzuva. The two officers tragically lost their lives on 14th June 2025 in a military aircraft crash during a routine training exercise in the Mwakijembe area of Kwale County.
The ceremony brought together grieving family members, friends, colleague senior officers, officers and service members from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), all united in paying tribute to the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to Kenya.
In her remarks, Maj Gen Fatuma Ahmed extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, affirming that the loss is not theirs alone but is deeply felt by the entire Kenya Air Force, the KDF, and the nation.
Commending the officers for their dedication and discipline, she added, “They took to the skies in service of the nation, and their names will forever be etched in the proud legacy of our Air Force and KDF as a whole. This is not just a farewell, but a heartfelt expression of our gratitude.”
Other senior military officials who addressed the gathering included Brigadier Bernard Oluoch, Base Commander Moi Air Base; Brigadier Mohamud Farah, Base Commander Laikipia Air Base; and Lieutenant Colonel Dickson Kitur, Commandant of the Aviation Centre of Excellence. Each lauded the officers’ courage, professionalism, and selfless service, and extended condolences to their loved ones.
Family members shared heartfelt tributes, offering glimpses into the lives of Major Amonde and Lieutenant Nzuva beyond their uniforms as devoted sons, husbands, brothers, and friends whose presence will be dearly missed.
Also in attendance were Deputy Commander Kenya Air Force, Brigadier Samwel Kipkorir; Base Commander Embakasi Air Base, Brigadier Steven Kapkory; Base Commander Wajir Air Base, Colonel Gideon Musyoki; Director Uhuru Gardens National Monument and Museum, Brigadier Oduor Opiyo; Chief of Legal Services, Brigadier Yvonne Kerubo; Chief of Research & Development at Defence Headquarters, Brigadier Oscar Muleyi; and Military Wives Association of Kenya representatives led by Mrs. Susan Oluoch, among others.
Major Amonde and Lieutenant Nzuva will be laid to rest on 4th July 2025 and 28th June 2025, respectively, in their home counties.
May their souls rest in eternal peace.
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