JCSC MARKS 40 YEARS WITH COMMEMORATIVE WALK AND CYCLING EVENT

The Joint Command and Staff College (JCSC) on Saturday, 31st May 2025, commemorated 40 years of academic excellence with a symbolic 40-kilometre walk and a 140-kilometre cycling event.

The event was flagged off at the JCSC headquarters in Karen, Nairobi by the College Commandant Major General Eric Kinuthia, accompanied by the Deputy Commandant Brigadier David Chesire.

JCSC, a College of the National Defence University–Kenya, offers two key programmes; Grade 2 (G2) and Grade 3 (G3) courses, aimed at developing the strategic leadership of military officers. The G2 Course (Senior Joint Command and Staff Course) is a one-year programme for Majors and newly promoted Lieutenant Colonels, while the G3 Course (Junior Joint Command and Staff Course) is a three-month programme designed for Captains and Junior Majors.

The College, formerly known as the Defence Staff College, graduated its first Senior Course participants in 1985 (Course No. 1–1984/85). The 40th cohort (Course No. 40–2024/25) is set to graduate on 5th June 2025.

The 40-kilometre walk honoured the institution’s four decades of existence, while the 140-kilometre cycling event marked two milestones: 100 kilometres in honour of the 100th Junior Joint Command and Staff Course since the programme’s inception, and an additional 40 kilometres in celebration of the College’s 40th anniversary.

To conclude the day’s activities, participants took part in a tree planting exercise, where 40 fruit tree seedlings were planted to symbolise the institution’s 40 years of growth and service.

Maj Gen Kinuthia, the Commandant JCSC stated that the event would leave an indelible mark in the institution.

“I take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the participants for pushing yourself to the limits. Further, I appreciate all the cyclists for dedicating their time for the celebration of 40 years and coming far and wide to be part of this memorable event,” he said.

In his address, Brigadier Chesire recognised the dedication and resilience of the participants, noting that the symbolic walk and cycling event reflected the endurance, discipline, and unity that the College has fostered over the past four decades.

The event was organised in partnership with Madison Group Limited, Diamond Trust Bank Kenya Limited, Britam Holdings PLC, and Villakazi Homes whose support contributed to the success of the commemorative activities.

This event brought together JCSC course participants, faculty members, and staff of the College. Also present were members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Cycling Team, drawn from the Army, Air Force, and Navy.