CDF VISITS TROOPS AT MANDA BAY AND OAB

The Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, visited Kenya Navy Base (KNB) Manda Bay, where he met Kenya Navy personnel stationed at the base as well as Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops deployed under the multi-agency Operation Amani Boni (OAB) in Lamu County.

On arrival, General Kahariri, accompanied by General Officers and Senior Officers from Defence Headquarters, was received by the Base Commander, Brigadier Lazarus Wafula, and the OAB Commander, Brigadier William Kamoiro.

In his address to the troops, General Kahariri conveyed greetings from H.E. Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces. He commended the soldiers for their high standards of professionalism and unwavering dedication to the defence of the nation. He emphasized the importance of operating as one force, maintaining sustained alertness, and adhering strictly to mission objectives, noting the critical role the troops play in safeguarding local and regional stability.

“Your fortitude and discipline in the face of demanding conditions reflect the true spirit of service. Your strength lies in operating together as one force, guided by a shared purpose and mutual trust,” he said.

General Kahariri reaffirmed the Kenya Defence Forces’ commitment to maintaining operational preparedness, prioritizing the welfare of personnel, and sustaining national security initiatives. He highlighted ongoing and future modernisation programmes, emphasising deliberate investment in advanced capabilities to enhance troops’ operational effectiveness. He further underscored the acquisition and upgrading of key platforms critical to addressing evolving and asymmetric security threats. The CDF also conveyed messages of goodwill and festive cheer to the troops during the Christmas season.

During the tour, the CDF visited several bases and camps, including Baragoni, Sinai, Sarira, and BP 27. At each location, he expressed gratitude for the troops’ dedication and resilience in safeguarding Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The visit underscored firm strategic leadership and continuous command oversight, reinforcing the Kenya Defence Forces’ commitment to sustaining operational momentum against security threats. It also boosted morale among deployed troops, affirming institutional support for their welfare, mission focus, and the continued stabilization and security of the Boni enclave.