The threat confronting a soldier is not always found on the battlefield. Financial indiscipline, unaddressed mental health challenges, adverse weather and road accidents can equally affect personnel welfare, operational effectiveness and mission readiness. These were among the realities highlighted by the Deputy Commander Kenya Army (DAC), Major General John Maiso Nkoimo, during a two-day visit to troops deployed in Lamu County.
Accompanied by senior officers from Headquarter Kenya Army, Major General Nkoimo was received at Manda Airstrip by the Base Commander, Kenya Navy Base (KNB) Manda, the Deputy Brigade Commander and other senior officers. He received an operational brief before proceeding to Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) within the area of operations.
The DAC thereafter visited Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel deployed under Operation Amani Boni (OAB), making stops at FOBs along the LAPSSET Corridor and Sector East. At the various locations, respective commanders briefed him on the security situation, administration, logistics and troop welfare, providing an overview of the operational environment and the support required to sustain the mission.
The visit provided Major General Nkoimo with a first-hand assessment of the conditions under which troops continue to execute the OAB mandate. It also enabled him to evaluate the administrative, logistical and welfare systems that underpin operational readiness across the area of operations.
During barazas with the troops, the Deputy Army Commander commended personnel for their dedication, resilience and professionalism in the execution of their duties. His engagements, however, extended beyond the immediate operational mission to the personal responsibilities and everyday choices that contribute to an effective and mission-ready soldier.
He urged personnel to uphold high standards of moral and financial discipline, emphasising that responsible financial management contributes to personal stability, family welfare and peace of mind. He also sensitised the troops on the newly introduced KDF Mortgage Scheme, highlighting the opportunities it provides Service personnel across all ranks to pursue affordable home ownership and strengthen their long-term financial security.
Major General Nkoimo further addressed challenges that may not always be visible behind the uniform. He encouraged personnel to safeguard their mental wellbeing, seek support when necessary and remain attentive to colleagues who may be experiencing difficulties. Such mutual responsibility, he noted, remains essential to maintaining cohesive, resilient and effective teams.
With the anticipated El Niño rains, the Deputy Army Commander urged troops to prepare for potentially challenging weather conditions while assuring them that Headquarters was putting measures in place to support personnel across operational areas. He also emphasised road safety, calling for heightened caution when operating motor vehicles and motorcycles amid concerns over road traffic accidents.
The visit reinforced a broader understanding of military readiness: a soldier’s effectiveness depends not only on the ability to confront an operational threat, but also on physical and mental wellbeing, financial responsibility, personal discipline, safety and preparedness for changing conditions.
As KDF personnel continue executing the OAB mandate, Major General Nkoimo encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined and vigilant, while looking after themselves and one another. Sustaining mission readiness, he emphasised, begins with a force that is professionally prepared, personally resilient and adequately supported to accomplish its mission.
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