On 13 March 2026, the Chief of the Defence Forces, General (Gen) Charles Kahariri, was conferred with the prestigious Legion of Honour during a ceremony held on board the French amphibious assault ship DIXMUDE. Also honoured was Major General (Maj Gen) Joyce Sitienei, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the Centre for Strategic and Security Studies of the National Defence University-Kenya, who received the National Defence Medal – Gold Level.
The Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur) is the highest French order of merit, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. It recognizes outstanding service in either a military or civilian capacity, and is conferred by decree of the President of the French Republic. The decoration recognises Gen Kahariri’s exemplary leadership and his significant role in strengthening defence cooperation and promoting regional security.
Similarly, the National Defence Medal (Médaille de la Défense nationale) – Gold Level conferred on Maj Gen Sitienei is a French military decoration created in 1982. It recognizes individual merit and commitment within the armed forces, rewarding service, professional achievement, and dedication to national defense. The medal is structured into three grades—bronze, silver, and gold—each marking increasing levels of distinction. The medal recognises her exceptional contributions to international peace support training, security cooperation, and defence partnerships involving France and allied forces.
The honours highlight the continued collaboration between Kenya and France, underscoring the enduring defence partnership between the Kenya Defence Forces and the French Armed Forces. This cooperation focuses on maritime security, joint training, and initiatives aimed at promoting peace, stability, and addressing shared regional security threats.
Speaking during the ceremony, His Excellency Arnaud Suquet, Ambassador of France to Kenya lauded the CDF and the Kenya Defence Forces leadership for their unwavering commitment to regional security, strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, and fostering enduring military partnerships between the two nations.
The awards reflect the strong bonds between Kenya and France and reinforce the mutual dedication of both nations to promoting peace, stability, and security across the region.
Also present during the ceremony were Germany Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Sebastian Groth; the Commander Kenya Navy, Maj Gen Paul Otieno; General Officers, Senior Officers and Officers from both Kenya and France, as well as leadership of the Military Wives Association of Kenya led by Chairlady Mrs Grace Kahariri.
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