On 26 January 2026, the Commander Kenya Air Force, Major General Bernard Waliaula, presided over the official opening of the Aviation Centre of Excellence (ACE) 07 Pioneer Rotary Wing Ab Initio Helicopter Course at the Helicopter Command, Moi Air Base. The ceremony marked a historic milestone as the Kenya Defence Forces launched its pioneer joint Helicopter Ab Initio Training Programme.
Previously, rotary wing training within the Kenya Defence Forces was conducted independently by the Kenya Army and the Kenya Air Force, with some training undertaken abroad. The establishment of the course by the Aviation Centre of Excellence demonstrates the KDF’s confidence in its internal training capacity while strengthening jointness and sustainability in aviation training.
Addressing the student pilots undertaking training on the Agusta Bell 206 helicopter, Major General Waliaula emphasized discipline and professionalism. “Your performance, discipline and professionalism will define the enhanced capability of the Kenya Defence Forces and set the standard for future courses,” stated the Commander. He also noted that conducting the training locally would significantly reduce costs and result in substantial savings of public funds.
The Commander challenged the trainees to uphold the Aviation Centre of Excellence vision of becoming the premier provider of professional flying training within the country and the region, while commending the ACE fraternity for maintaining high standards of discipline, safety and mentorship.
Speaking on behalf of the Commandant Kenya Army Corps of Aviation (KACA), the Commanding Officer KACA, Lieutenant Colonel David Nzuve, expressed pride in the milestone, noting that it was the first Kenya Army specific course to be conducted at the facility. He assured the Commander that the officers selected for the course possess the character and resilience required to succeed.
The Commandant Aviation Centre of Excellence, Colonel Douglas Muthuri, assured the Commander Kenya Air Force that the training environment and instructional faculty were fully prepared to deliver the course to the highest professional standards.
The ceremony was also attended by the Base Commander Moi Air Base, Brigadier Herbert Wafula, the Deputy Base Commander, Principal Staff Officers from Kenya Air Force Headquarters, Commanding Officers, Senior Officers, Instructors, as well as helicopter engineers and technicians.
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