President Uhuru Kenyatta commends military for expertise as fallen soldiers are remembered

President Uhuru Kenyatta and Chief of General Staff Julius Karangi (right) salute in honour of the officers who perished in Somalia, during KDF day at Lanet in Nakuru, Tuesday [PHOTO:BONIFACE THUKU/STANDARD]

NAKURU, KENYA: President Uhuru Kenyatta presided over the Kenya Defence Forces Day at Lanet in Nakuru Tuesday and commended the military for upholding professionalism.

The day commemorated the third anniversary since Kenyan troops entered Somali and was used to remember soldiers who lost their lives during Operation Linda Nchi and in various other military operations.

The President commended KDF for exceptional conduct during Operation Linda Nchi, which culminated in the liberation of Kismayu from Al-Shabaab terrorists.

Uhuru, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of KDF, for the second time in as many months donned his military uniform as he presided over the event marked with pomp and colour at the Lanet barracks.

He lauded the Kenyan military for inspiring a sense of dedication to duty, pride and professionalism.

“The Kenya Defence Forces, born after the promulgation of our new Constitution, continues to build on the high standards of professionalism and discipline that its predecessor upheld and that is why it has already become the efficient, modern and patriotic organisation that Kenyans are rightly proud of,” he said

The Head of State reminded Kenyans that the task of defending the nation and the region was onerous in view of the prevailing threats to the nation’s security.

Uhuru said terrorists still target unarmed civilians, hoping to create fear and to divide and sow hatred among citizens, and praised Kenyans for showing unity.

On arrival at the Lanet Barracks, the President lay a wreath on a monument constructed in honour of soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty in Somalia.

The President also launched a special book authored by military personnel based on the operation in Somali. Colourful military displays punctuated the celebrations.

KDF chief General Julius Karangi said the book would be used by the military as part of their training manual. Among those who attended the event were Defence Principal Secretary Mutea Iringo, service commanders and senior retired military officers. Others were Nakuru Governor Kinuthia Mbugua and Kajiado Central MP Joseph Nkaissery.