Overview
- Act: Kenya Defence Forces Act 2012
- Formed: 1963
- CEO: GENERAL Charles M Kahariri CBS
- X (Twitter)
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is the military organization responsible for defending Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Established on May 1, 1963, KDF’s mandate includes protecting national interests, supporting civil authorities during emergencies, and conducting security operations against internal and external threats. It also engages in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and peacekeeping missions worldwide. KDF is committed to training and capacity building for its personnel, advancing military technology, and collaborating with regional partners to address security challenges, thus ensuring stability and peace in Kenya and the East African region.
CEO: GENERAL Charles M Kahariri CBS
General Charles M. Kahariri CBS holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts from the University of Nairobi and a National War College (USA) qualification. With extensive military experience, he has served in various
leadership roles, significantly contributing to national and regional security efforts.
SERVICE COMMANDERS
LT. GEN David Tarus CBS
Commander Kenya Army
MAJ. GEN Fatuma G Ahmed CBS OGW
Commander Kenya Air Force
MAJ. GEN Paul Owuor Otieno EBS
Commander Kenya Navy
LEADERSHIP
H.E. Dr. WILLIAM SAMOEI RUTO, CGH
The President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces.
Roselinda Soipan Tuya, E.G.H
Cabinet Secretary Defence
GENERAL Charles M Kahariri CBS
Chief Of The Kenya Defence Forces
Dr. Patrick Mariru CBS
Principal Secretary Ministry Of Defence
LT. GEN John M Omenda EBS SS OGW
Vice Chief of Defence Forces
Functions
- Defending the Sovereignty: Protecting the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests of Kenya against external aggression.
- Supporting Civil Authority: Assisting civil authorities in maintaining law and order during emergencies, disasters, or civil unrest.
- National Security Operations: Conducting operations to ensure national security and safeguard against threats, including terrorism and insurgency.
- Disaster Response: Providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during natural disasters or emergencies, both domestically and internationally.
- Peacekeeping Missions: Participating in international peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the United Nations or regional bodies, contributing to global peace and security.
- Training and Capacity Building: Training personnel for both military and civilian roles, enhancing the operational capacity of the forces.
- Military Development: Engaging in research, development, and procurement of military equipment and technologies to maintain
- operational readiness.
- Public Health and Welfare: Supporting national development programs, including public health initiatives and community development efforts.
- Intelligence Gathering: Gathering and analyzing intelligence related to national security to inform policy and operational decisions.
- Regional Security Cooperation: Collaborating with neighboring countries and regional organizations to address security challenges and promote stability in the East African region.
Important Links
Address & Contacts
- P O Box 40668 – 00100 Nairobi
- Ministry of Defence – Ulinzi House ,
- PR63+C67, Lenana Rd, Nairobi
- publicaffairs@mod.go.ke
- 2712054