General Francis Ogolla Sworn In as the New Chief of Defense Forces in Kenya

Lieutenant General Francis Omondi Ogolla has formally assumed office as the new Chief of Defense Forces following his appointment by President Ruto on Friday.

Ogolla was sworn in on Saturday alongside Vice Chief of Defense Forces Lt General Jonah Maina Mwangi during a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, and witnessed by President Ruto.

Until his appointment, Ogolla was serving as the Vice Chief of the Defense Forces (VCDF). He takes over from General Robert Kariuki Kibochi who exits after serving in the military for 44 years.

"You have my confidence and that of the people of Kenya," President Ruto said during the swearing-in ceremony.

The president praised Gen Kibochi’s contribution towards advancing excellence in Kenya’s military and challenged his successor to emulate his example.

In the military changes announced on Friday, Ruto also promoted Major General Said Farah to Vice Chancellor of the National Defense University.

Brigadier David Kipkemboi Keter was promoted to Major General and appointed Assistant Chief of the Defense Forces Personnel and Logistics (ACDF P&L). 

Ruto promoted Brigadier Stephen James Mutuku to Major General and appointed him as Senior Directing Staff (Army) at the National Defense College while Brigadier John Maison Nkoimo was promoted to Major General rank and appointed Commandant, Joint Command Staff College (JCSC).

Brigadier Abdulkadir Mohammed Burje was elevated to Major General and named the Director of Military Intelligence (DMI), while Brigadier Paul Owuor Otieno was appointed Managing Director at Kenya Shipyards Limited.