In a ceremony marked by reflection, honour, and deep camaraderie, members of Cadet Intake 9 gathered to pay tribute to one of the most influential figures in their military foundation, General (Rtd) Daudi Tonje. The event, held under the banner of appreciation, highlighted the important role Gen Tonje played not only in shaping the careers of those in uniform but also in laying the foundation for a generation of national leadership.
When Intake 9 began their cadet training in 1979, they were young, hopeful civilians stepping into the rigor of military life. What they found in General Tonje was more than a commanding officer; they found a mentor, a role model, and a leader whose vision would shape their futures. Under his guidance, 98 members of the cohort were successfully commissioned, an achievement that marked the beginning of a legacy.
General Tonje’s influence, however, did not end with Intake 9. He went on to serve as the Commanding Officer for Intake 10, just three months later, and played critical roles in the development of Intakes 11 and 12. The military records speak volumes: the intakes that came under his leadership produced a high number of Senior-ranking Officers in then Kenya Armed Forces, now KDF.
Some of the Intake 9 cadets who rose to be generals were Gen (Rtd) Samson Mwathethe, Lt Gen (Rtd) Samuel Thuita, Maj Gen (Rtd) Philip Kameru, Maj Gen (Rtd) Andrew Ikenye, Maj Gen (Rtd) Maurice Walugu, Maj Gen (Rtd) Bashir Haji, Maj Gen (Rtd) Benjamin Biwott, the late Maj Gen Francis Nthenge, and the late Maj Gen (Rtd) Michael Munywoki. Together with them were Brig (Rtd) Joe Bukhala and Brig (Rtd) Mohan Soki and many more. The Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major then was the revered WO1 Gerishon Lisimba. This speaks volumes about the calibre of leadership, discipline, and mentorship instilled by General Tonje.
Beyond the military sphere, many from this intake transitioned into civilian life, yet carried with them the values and ethos imparted by their former commander. Today, they excel in various sectors in the Government, business, and civil service—demonstrating that the principles of military leadership remain invaluable in all walks of life.
“We have often found ourselves in challenging situations, both in service and in civilian roles,” one speaker reflected. “And in those moments, we’ve asked ourselves, ‘If I were General Tonje, what would I do?’ That question continues to guide us.”
The event concluded not simply with gratitude, but with a renewed commitment to uphold the legacy of a man who shaped a generation. General Tonje’s leadership created more than successful Officers; it forged resilient, principled leaders for the nation.
His legacy, grounded in excellence and purpose, will continue to serve as a compass for all who walked under his command and for those who will follow the path he so clearly marked.
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