The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on 1st December 2025 joined the global community in marking World AIDS Day, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a healthy, resilient, and mission-ready force.
Commemorative events, held under the theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” took place at Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, across KDF camps in Kenya, and within deployments under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
At Defence Headquarters, the ceremony was led by the Commandant, Col Gideon Bebora, who underscored the importance of continuous awareness and support for personnel and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Reading a message from the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Charles Kahariri, the Commandant reiterated KDF’s commitment to sustaining health education, reducing stigma, and encouraging regular testing as part of its year-round health strategy.
“Initiatives aimed at promoting health education, reducing stigma, and supporting those living with HIV/AIDS are part of our broader strategy to ensure KDF remains healthy, capable, and effective in service to the nation,” Gen Kahariri’s message read.
Specialists facilitated sessions focusing on prevention, treatment, care, and the lived experiences of individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Presentations debunked myths, encouraged early testing, highlighted new prevention tools, and emphasized the need for supportive environments to strengthen individual well-being and overall force readiness.
At Kahawa Garrison, the Kenya Army marked the day in an event led by the Commander Kenya Army, Lt Gen David Ketter. Representing the CDF, Lt Gen Ketter stressed the importance of routine testing, behavioural change, and the integration of HIV services across the military health system. He called for sustained efforts to eliminate stigma and ensure affected personnel continue to serve with dignity.
The Kenya Air Force held parallel activities at all its bases, including Moi Air Base and Laikipia Air Base. Base Commanders Brigadier Herbert Wafula and Brigadier Mohamud Farah delivered the CDF’s message, reminding service members of the need for continuous education and strengthened support systems. Activities included testing, counselling, and inspirational testimonials encouraging empathy and collective responsibility.
KDF personnel under the Multi-Agency Operation Amani Boni (OAB), together with Kenya Navy officers at Manda Bay Base, also held a joint commemoration presided over by Brigadier Lazarus Wafula. Delivering the CDF’s message, Brigadier Wafula urged troops to make informed decisions and utilise available medical services, especially while operating in the high-pressure Boni enclave. Emotional testimonies from invited guests living with HIV reinforced the call for vigilance, responsibility, and compassion.
In Baringo County, troops under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) joined county partners and local organisations in marking the day at Chemoligot Town. Led by Major Jairus Kakai, the team offered free HIV testing, general health checks, and clean drinking water, highlighting KDF’s contribution to community health.
Across all locations, the message remained consistent: despite disruptions—whether from conflict, pandemics, or demanding operational environments—the fight against HIV must remain a priority. KDF leadership reaffirmed that overcoming these disruptions requires unity, vigilance, and sustained commitment to awareness, prevention, and accessible care.
A similar spirit of solidarity echoed across AUSSOM Sector II, where KDF troops held tailored commemorations in mission conditions. Two days of sensitization preceded the main events, offering free testing, counselling, and education on transmission, prevention, and adherence to treatment.
In Kismayo, the ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Commander AUSSOM Sector II, Col Samson Kenga, who delivered remarks on behalf of the CDF. He applauded progress made in HIV/AIDS prevention within the force and urged troops to take personal responsibility for their health.
In Dhobley, Commander Dhobley Main Operating Base (MOB), Col Maurice Wasomi, led a joint ceremony involving AUSSOM-KDF troops, Somali National Army personnel, and the Jubaland Police Force. He commended medical teams for their efforts and reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to ensuring access to testing and care.
In Afmadhow, Lt Col David Waigwa, of KDF led a medical outreach initiative at Afmadhow Hospital, offering services to more than 134 residents. The team also conducted a cleanup exercise, carried out minor facility repairs, donated foodstuffs, and planted trees, reinforcing the mission’s strong community-support efforts. Similar outreach and awareness activities were conducted at Tabda and Hoosingo Tactical Operating Bases.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the 5th Kenya Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5) serving under MONUSCO joined peacekeepers from other nations in Mavivi, North Kivu. Medical teams emphasized the unique challenges of accessing HIV services in conflict zones and called for innovative approaches to safeguarding progress in global AIDS response efforts.
The unified commemorations across Kenya, Somalia and the DRC highlighted KDF’s unwavering dedication to promoting awareness, encouraging healthy choices, and standing in solidarity with all those affected by HIV/AIDS.
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