Kenya Names New Defence Chief After Deadly Chopper Crash

2nd May 2024

Kenyan authorities Thursday named Charles Muriu Kahariri as defence chief after the death of his predecessor in a helicopter crash.

Kahariri replaces Francis Omondi Ogolla who was among 10 military officers killed when their chopper went down in a remote area of northwestern Kenya on April 18.

He also named Major-General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed as commander of the Kenya Air Force, the first woman in the nation’s history to hold the position.

She replaces John Mugaravai Omenda, who was promoted to Vice-Chief of the Defence Forces and the rank of lieutenant-general.

Major-General Paul Owuor Otieno was also named commander of the Kenya Navy.