Technical expertise, research and innovation are essential to sustaining a modern, mission-ready Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). This was underscored during the 22nd Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC) graduation ceremony held on 11 November 2026 at Embakasi Garrison, where Officers and Service Members graduated after successfully completing various technical and professional programmes. The ceremony was presided over by the Commander Kenya Air Force (KAF), Major General Bernard Waliaula.
As a college under the National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K), DEFTEC plays a strategic role in developing specialised technical and Information Technology manpower for the KDF. Beyond training, its mandate encompasses research, development and innovation aimed at strengthening military capabilities and supporting national industrialisation. The graduates are equipped to operate, maintain, repair and sustain military equipment and systems, contributing to improved equipment serviceability, reduced reliance on external technical support and enhanced operational readiness across the Services.
Ahead of the ceremony, Maj Gen Waliaula toured an exhibition of student innovations, including a Weapons Inventory Management System, Usalama Bora Emergency Response System, Smart Brooder System and a solar-powered electric bicycle, demonstrating the practical application of technical knowledge in developing solutions. He also toured the Hydraulics Laboratory, unveiled the improved College frontage and officially opened the renovated Marbore Workshop. He subsequently presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for a new tuition block with a capacity of 320 students and toured the Students’ Centre earmarked for renovation.
The renovated Marbore Workshop received significant support from Bluebird Aviation, which donated a complete Fokker 50 aircraft engine, including its propeller hub, mounted on specially designed stands, a Y-12 engine and a Fokker 50 propeller assembly. The company also undertook the workshop’s renovation and sponsored the third edition of the College magazine. These contributions provide valuable practical training equipment for aviation-related courses while strengthening the partnership between military training institutions and the aviation industry.
In his address, Maj Gen Waliaula commended DEFTEC for its progress in technical training, academic performance and infrastructure development. He highlighted plans to introduce advanced programmes in Weapon Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Information Technology for Defence Systems and Cybersecurity, emphasising the need to match programme expansion with modern facilities and qualified instructors.
“The knowledge and skills you have acquired place upon you an obligation to contribute meaningfully to your respective units, improve technical efficiency and uphold the highest standards of professionalism. Embrace emerging technologies, remain innovative and continually seek opportunities to improve existing systems and processes,” he challenged the graduates.
The College Commandant, Brigadier Ismail Noor, appreciated the support received from strategic partners, particularly Bluebird Aviation, Kenya Airways, PearITek Kenya Limited, IFLY Air Solutions, 748 Air Services, Valcon Air Solutions, Skyward Express, Isuzu East Africa, Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers, East Africa School of Aviation and Kenya Forest Service. He noted that their contributions, alongside opportunities for industrial attachments and field training, enhance the relevance and practical value of the College’s programmes.
“Our mandate extends beyond training personnel to include research, development and innovation aimed at strengthening military operational capabilities and supporting national industrialisation,” Brig Noor emphasised.
Through sustained investment in technical skills, infrastructure, research and strategic partnerships, DEFTEC continues to strengthen the KDF’s capacity for equipment maintenance, indigenous innovation and technological self-reliance, reinforcing its vital contribution to a professional and mission-ready Force.
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