AN EXCLUSIVE EDITION Majeshi YetuYetu VOLUME 16, 2020

Protect and Serve Preamble The Ministry of Defence is comprised of the , the , the , the Defence Force Constabulary and the Civilian Staff.

Mandate The Mandate of the Ministry is derived from Article 241 of the and the Kenya Act No. 25 of 2012.

Vision A premier, credible and mission capable force deeply rooted in professionalism.

Mission To defend and protect the and territorial integrity of the Republic, assist and cooperate with other authorities in situations of emergency or disaster and restore peace in any part of Kenya affected by unrest or instability as assigned.

Commitment The Ministry of Defence is committed to defending the people of the Republic of Kenya and their property against external aggression and also providing support to Civil Authority.

Core Values To achieve its Mission and Vision, the Ministry is guided by its core values and beliefs namely:

Apolitical: The Defence Forces will steer clear of politics and will remain steadfastly apolitical.

The Civil Prerogative: The Defence Force shall always subordinate itself to democratic Civil Authority and will treat the people of Kenya and its other clients with civility at all times.

Loyalty and Commitment: The Defence Forces will uphold its loyalty and commitment to the Commander-in-Chief and the Kenya People of the Republic of Kenya through the chain of command.

Patriotism: The staff of the Ministry of Defence shall always be Defence patriotic to the Government and the People of Kenya.

Professionalism: Service delivery will be based on the highest Forces professional standards. Cover Photo

Kenya Army medical personnel attend to a mother and her child during a medical camp in Kotile, on 8 August 2018.

Publisher

Editor-in-Chief Ngugi Muhindi Copyright © 2020 by Kenya Defence Forces, Ministry of Defence, Kenya. Editorial Team All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, Mboya Mwenga distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including Colonel Patrick Kamanda photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, Colonel Zipporah Kioko without the prior written permission of the publisher, except brief Colonel Catherine Nekesa quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non- Bedan Njue commercial uses permitted by copyright law. Major John Wanjemah Major Denis Kairemia The contents herein are attributable to the authors themselves and their Major Ali Hassan Tadicha opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Kenya Captain Alfred Mwabili Defence Forces or the Ministry of Defence.

Photography Talk to us: Defence Headquarters Public Affairs Office Ministry of Defence, Kenya Headquarters Kenya Army Public Affairs P.O. Box 40668 – 00100 Ulinzi House, Lenana Road, Office Tel: 2721100, 2712054 Ext: 5839 Email: [email protected] Layout and Design Website: www.mod.go.ke Patrick Shinyosi Twitter: @kdfinfo Edwin Masoni Facebook: @OfficialKDF Private Joannaliz Nafula Youtube: Kenya Defence Forces CONTENTS Majeshi Yetu Volume 16

24. 12.

Message From Commander 04. Kenya Army

Humanitarian Civil Assistance: A Game 06. Changer in Operations

Military to the Rescue of 09. Flood Victims Dhobley’s Miracle Girl: How KDF Medics Helped 10. 21. 14. Somali Girl Win Battle of Her Life

Kenyan Troops' Water Harvesting Project 18. Quenches Burgavo’s Thirst 20. Together in Tough Times 26. Unbowed 31. Pictorial

16. Protect and Serve

Remarks by Editor-in-Chief

am pleased to welcome you Ito the premiere Majeshi Yetu – Kenya Army edition.

The theme of this edition focuses on ‘Humanitarian Operations’ which demonstrates efforts undertaken by the Kenya Army in offering humanitarian assistance to civilians in various aspects. This edition comes at a time when humanity in general and more specifically our society faces an existential crisis caused by global warming and the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic among others.

The key civil military activities that the Kenya Army in conjunction with other agencies has been involved in cut across infrastructural projects, socio- economic activities, emergency interventions as well as provision of medical services among others. These activities include the rehabilitation project of Thika – Metre Gauge Railways, the fight against locust invasion, Brigadier Ngugi Muhindi ‘ndc’ , ‘psc’ (K ) sealing of porous border points, community services activities, environment conservation, distribution of relief and the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

Enjoy your read!

Majeshi Yetu 3 Protect and Serve

Message From Commander Kenya Army

Lieutenant General Walter R Koipaton MGH CBS OGW ‘ndc’ (K) ‘psc’ (TZ)

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Reaching out to the civilian population produces timely results as we serve the people while at the same time defeat and deter adversaries.

he vision of the Kenya Army is to be a credible Likewise, the Kenya Army has actively participated in and mission capable army deeply rooted in humanitarian activities across the country during disasters professionalism. While executing its primary in aid to civil authorities. These include distributing food and secondary roles, the Kenya Army is aid and relief to communities affected and displaced by driven by the desire for selfless service natural calamities such as floods. to the nation and humanity. Cognizant of an evolving operational environment, agility for Other critical actions undertaken include; infrastructure Ttransformative military operations in peacetime contexts, development, medical care services and disaster and active combat operations demand responsive interventions. sustainable endevours. Moreover, military actions that speak to humanity are central to sustainable peace During emergencies, the Kenya Army has smoothly and security campaigns in the emerging contemporary worked with various humanitarian agencies and key security environment. civilian actors leading to the achievement of military operational objectives. Subsequently, such humanitarian Complex disastrous emergencies expose vulnerable initiatives have helped project the human face of the populations to harmful situations that lead to civilian military operations both locally and beyond our borders. suffering. In combat operations, securing the environment by the military enables humanitarian actors to access Undeniably, humanitarian activities have underlying crucial locations hence helping in the protection of human, social, economic, and environmental implications civilians. Humanitarian activities are vital in sustaining that if unattended to would defy the efforts and gains dignified life and alleviate the suffering inflicted on made in peace and security campaigns. civilians in conflicts, post-conflict contexts and during natural calamities. Indeed, civil-military activities present Based on the above, it is worth noting that contemporary a baseline for the adoption of operation initiatives that security threats require a paradigm shift in military enhance service to humanity. approaches to security. Therefore, despite a remarkable expansion in the scope of engagements, at the heart of Successive deployment and operations of the Kenya the Kenya Army operations, are transformative services Army troops in regional and international peace rendered to humanity. operations have intensified humanitarian assistance to local communities through Civil-Military Cooperation These inform the strategic focus of our core mandate (CIMIC) activities. to defend the country. Reaching out to the civilian population produces timely results as we serve the Besides, securing the environment in our operational people while at the same time defeat and deter areas, the army participates directly and indirectly in adversaries. In essence, maximizing service to humanity humanitarian assistance. Recent civil-military initiatives for military operations is central to Ngao Ya Taifa guided undertaken in Operation Fagia Msitu (OFM) in Boni by the Chief of Defence Forces vision of provision of first Forest and AMISOM are notable examples that such class training and provision of equipment for mission activities are yielding fruits. Providing health services, readiness. The Kenya Army will endevour to afford quality water, and construction of schools and roads coupled training and resources to troops that will enable them to with Key Leader Engagements have contributed to good fully address their constitutional mandate to secure the relations between troops and the local populations. Kenyan population against any land based threat as well as provide support to populations when called upon.

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Humanitarian Civil Assistance: A Game Changer in Operations By Major Andrew Wamocha and Captain G K Rutto

ollowing the Mpeketoni mosquito repellants and building attack by the Al Shabaab materials in Mararani, Kiunga, in June 2014, a multi- Kiangwe, Bodhei, Kotile and Dide agency counter-insurgency Waride. operation against the terrorists in the Boni Forest region Non-Governmental Organisations Fwas launched. (NGOs) have played a pivotal role in supporting humanitarian At the centre of the operation are the operations by providing foodstuffs vulnerable civilian populations. The which are distributed by the presence of Al Shabaab elements security teams to the population. in the area had contributed to lawlessness, disrupted livelihoods These civil-military efforts in Boni and led to desperation among have been a game-changer in residents. denying Al Shabaab the space to operate. Interaction with the local This fluidity made the multi-agency community through Key Leader security teams adapt alternative Engagement (KLE) initiatives campaigns that address challenges has also fostered good relations faced by the local population in between the locals and security order to stabilise the area through agencies. Humanitarian Civil Assistance (HCA). The multi-agency security teams adapt alternative Activities that have been carried campaigns that address out include sinking boreholes, challenges faced by the Kenya Army soldiers distributing fresh conducting medical camps, local population in order to water to IDPs at Kijo Camp. donation of construction materials stabilise the area. and provision of food, fresh water,

A KDF aircraft supplying food aid to resident of Kiunga in Lamu County.

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Medical support to the local populace through medical camps within the Boni area were conducted in Gedilun and Handaro in March and May 2020 respectively by the military medical teams. In addition, several emergency medical evacuations have been undertaken using KDF aircrafts. In Local January 2020 for instance, a female patient with obstructed labour and a male patient with acute renal failure, were airlifted from Sangailu to King Fahad Hospital. These efforts have gone a long way in providing essential Populace: services to the locals. Fulcrum Upon Which Other major activities such as the rehabilitation and construction of water pans have been carried out. In September 2019, the Isse Maalim Abdi Peace is Achieved water pan in Matarba Sub-location By Major Gilbert Koech was constructed. In March 2020, rehabilitation of Bulla Rahma water pan in Sangailu Division was completed.

Kabasalo water pan in Hulugho Division, which is undergoing rehabilitation, will serve more than 600 households on completion. Furthermore, the construction of more water pans within the enclave has proved vital because terrorists previously exploited water conflicts to extort levies and livestock from locals.

These developments have seen the military interact with other leaders in the community to ensure that the needs of the people are addressed. The populace continues to appreciate these initiatives by the military that have Ms Amina Muse Hujale and Mr Ibrahim Isaac on board a KDF helicopter being a positive impact to the community. evacuated to King Fahad Hospital – Lamu on 28th January, 2020. This has immensely contributed to improved cooperation of locals with the security agencies as well as national eaceful co-existence is a has restored security in the area and government administration officers and product of mutual trust and ensured the livelihoods of residents are key community leaders. acceptance in any society. secured. The adoption of the maxim To strengthen unity of effort in the of smart power by Kenya The Operation Fagia Msitu (OFM) restoration of peace and security, Defence Forces (KDF) comprises of a multi-agency team. The the OFM leadership has embraced encompasses winning the hearts and Kenya Defence Force, in its contribution negotiations and dialogue with the minds in pursuit of a secure Boni region. to restore peace and tranquility, has P local leadership through Key Leader emphasized the need to work with Engagements (KLE). To this end, Since September 2015, KDF has been the local communities through CIMIC the OFM leadership presides over deployed in Boni region as part of the activities. consultative meetings with Sangailu Multi-agency Security Team (MST) to Nyumba Kumi initiative committee. flush out Al-Shabaab insurgents within According to Robert Greene, defeating the enclave. the adversary in detail involves looking These engagements within Boni have for links and joints and dealing the right provided an opportunity to highlight the Al Shabaab had used the Boni area as blow to those links and joints. With an successes of civil-military cooperation. their base and had subjected the local understanding that peace is not only In so doing, working with the local population to extortion in the name of the absence of violence, the army has populace is the fulcrum upon which the Zakat. The locals were forced to part been keen in achieving this objective peace and tranquility is hinged hence with a percentage of their livestock and by reaching out to the community to the insurgency groups no longer enjoy pay a levy every year for watering their provide basic services. freedom of action within the enclave. animals at water pans. But the military

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AMISOM Sector VI Combats Corona in Kismayo By Captain Victor Kurgat

Other CIMIC activities undertaken he AMISOM Sector VI, a bi- the hearts and minds of the general in the recent past include food national sector with Kenya population to persuade them support distribution during the Holy Month of Defence Forces (KDF) the quest for peace and promotion of Ramadhan at Lakoley Madrassa and and the Ethiopia National human rights in the country. New Airport in May 2020. Defence Forces (ENDF) contingents, among other partners, These activities have led to AMISOM is also undertaking the Thas been carrying out sensitisation relative warmth towards the peace construction of a diversion of the drives on the coronavirus in Kismayo, ambassadors. 5.5-kilometre Abdalle–Birolle-Kismayo . road. The project, which commenced in June 2020, will empower residents Cognizant of the effects of the Other CIMIC activities economically while reducing the pandemic, the troops have revved up undertaken in the recent past effects of Improvised Explosive efforts to combat its spread among include food distribution Devices (IEDs) on locals. residents. during the Holy Month IEDS have had a negative impact on the The campaign is part of the troops’ of Ramadhan at Lakoley lives of the Kismayo residents. These targeted Civil Military Cooperation Madrassa and New Airport in losses directly affect their livelihoods (CIMIC) activities aimed at winning May 2020. and standard of living.

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AMISOM Sector VI Combats Corona in Kismayo

Kenya Army soldiers donating iron sheets to IDPs at Kijo Camp.

Military to the Rescue of Flood Victims By Sergeant John Kiarie

ana Delta was one of the areas In June, KDF personnel in Witu began most affected by the May floods The military efforts supplying fresh water to over 500 IDPs that hit many parts of the country. at Danisa and Kijo camps. Further, the T have promoted multi-agency team donated food, iron Thousands of families fled their homes sheets, face masks, water treatment to safer grounds where they erected cohesion and reagents and fumigated the IDP temporary structures. cordial relationship camps.

Swathes of land in Tana River, Garissa with the local The military efforts have promoted and Lamu counties were submerged communities cohesion and cordial relationship with underwater, leaving a trail of Internally the local communities. Displaced Persons (IDPs). These areas fall under the expansive Boni Enclave, helicopters have been instrumental Besides the humanitarian assistance, which hosts several security bases and in ensuring timely assistance and the military and other security agencies camps. supply of humanitarian aid in remote have been engaging the public on locations. ways of countering radicalisation. The humanitarian crisis occasioned by the floods prompted multi-agency Working with, among other actors, Sensitisation sessions have been leadership in Boni to initiate assistance the county administration and Kenya held in Kiunga, Witu, Bargoni, Lamu to cushion residents from the impact Red Cross, the military joined hands to Island, Mokowe, Hindi, Mpeketoni and of the floods. Kenya Defence Forces provide food and clothing to the IDPs. Bodhei, among other areas.

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AMISOM Brings Hope to Ailing Somali Citizens

By Major Otieno ecades of instability in Somalia has led to the collapse of the country’s health systems which in turn have affected the provision of health services to the Dpopulation.

The deployment of the Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) has, however, enabled the provision of health care services to local communities through Civil Military AMISOM VIII Sector II medical officers reviewing patients at Dhobley Cooperation (CIMIC) activities. General Hospital during an outreach medical camp.

For example, AMISOM VIII Sector II Locals who required lifesaving and wound, was treated at Dhobley Level Medical Component (Level II and sustaining surgical procedures, both II Hospital, admitted for three months Level I hospitals) has undertaken emergency and, were attended to at and discharged. several health care provision activities the Level II hospital. Over 100 locals targeting locals. were operated on various surgical In collaboration with Bancroft Global conditions which included traumatic Development and Operation Smile By February 2019, more than 13,200 injuries. Train, the hospital carried out a week- locals had benefited from the medical long surgical repair of cleft lip and outreach programmes. Among these, Success stories palates. Nineteen locals with cleft lips 84 locals were admitted for in-patient Hajir Daudi (Hajir), a resident of Diff and cleft palates benefited from free care while 85 benefited from life-saving Somalia who in March 2019 sustained a surgical services. and sustaining surgeries. In addition, serious gunshot injury, was successfully within routine medical CIMIC at Level II treated at the Dhobley Level II Hospital By offering these medicare services, and Level I hospitals (In-reach Medical and discharged after three months. CIMIC has fostered a cordial Camps) 12,373 people, including Five-year-old Abdi Dekow, who was relationship between the local women and children received health pricked by a thorn on his left thigh leadership and AMISOM. care. which developed into a life-threatening

10 Majeshi Yetu Protect and Serve Making The World A Better Place By Major Paul Njue

“…the cadets are inspired by the need to leave the world a better place as part of the service owed to future generations”

ommunity service, a Such was the case when our generation, as they did when they component of military forces joined the County visited the Good Samaritan and training, has enjoyed Government to improve the sanitation Haven of Hope children’s homes. tremendous success in of various facilities within Kivumbini promoting cordial relations and Flamingo estates. Past events also show that the military between uniformed officers and the has heeded the call of its people. Ccivilian population. And they went a step further. In Case in point is its involvement in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross, the rescue operations during the Such has been the case in Nakuru Unga Farm Care, Kenya Association of devastating Solai Dam County, as illustrated by the good Manufacturers and the Nakuru County tragedy in 2018. relations between the Kenya Military Government, cadets participated in Academy (KMA) and its neighbouring cleaning the Nakuru General Hospital. Indeed, community. community This particular exercise showed our service is critical KMA cadets within the county have soldiers’ commitment to ensuring that in training partnered with the community in Kenyans are in good health as they young soldiers various initiatives to improve life and enjoy the freedoms for which they to be leaders by the environment. give their lives fighting. nurturing values that enhance Some of the activities conducted Furthermore, cadets have shown up service to the through the partnership include for the community in many other ways. nation. clean-up and tree-planting drives as well as teaching and mentorship Notably, they have visited various programmes. institutions such as the John Mututho Educational In conducting such exercises, the Centre (JOMEC), cadets are inspired by the need to where cadets leave the world a better place as and clients part of the service owed to future of the generations. rehabilitation facility They have, in collaboration with the participated Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and in sporting other stakeholders, participated in activities. a clean-up exercise of Lake Nakuru National Park. They also play a They also took part in cleaning up part in River Njoro, which flows into Lake mentoring Nakuru to reduce the in-flow of solid the waste into the lake. younger A Senior Cadet The initiative has extended beyond assists a child to the natural environment and wear a mask ventured to within the homes of the surrounding communities.

Majeshi Yetu 11 Protect and Serve

...the Kenyan contingent is making more desks to be distributed to various schools across the sector.

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security, farming in Southern Somalia is a source of employment to youth Winning Hearts who would otherwise be targets of Al Shabaab dragnets.

The Female Engagement Team (FET) that comprises female service and Minds in personnel, has been able to make interventions targeting women. In August 2020, the FET donated cultural dancing attire to Dhobley Cultural Group. FET also conducts outreach Somalia programmes. During International Women’s Day, it distributed sanitary towels, cleaning materials and assorted By Captain Tony Njagi and Captain Gilbert Gitau food items.

he desired end state of Moreover, the Kenyan contingent is In May 2020, AMISOM in conjunction AMISOM is to achieve making more desks to be distributed with the Danish government, sustainable peace and to various schools across the sector. established a fully functional police security in Somalia. Besides During the Holy Month of Ramadhan, station in Dhobley town to promote military operational AMISOM Sectors II and VI marked security. This was a boost to the objectives, the Civil Military Zakat Al Fitr by donating food items enforcement of the rule of law in the Cooperation (CIMIC) aspect has a to communities living around all the area. Plans are underway to initiate Tprofound role to play in supporting Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). similar projects elsewhere. this objective. This went a long way in cushioning vulnerable locals against the tough CIMIC is the human face of the soldiers CIMIC is an integral part of the economic times occasioned by the that connects them with the civil operational planning process in liaison raging COVID-19 pandemic. population, which depicts the soldier’s with civilian agencies to support the knowledge of the locals’ plight local population in achieving lasting In June 2020 soldiers in Dhobley FOB enabling them to effectively lend a peace. donated farm implements that included hand in adherence to the principle of wheelbarrows, rakes and shovels to Humanitarian Imperative. It is against this backdrop that AMISOM farmers. Besides guaranteeing food IX has embraced CIMIC activities, key among them medical outreaches across the sector, which include medicare and sensitisation.

Notably, two-year old Naimuna Mohammed Baale who had sustained 40 per cent body burns was treated at AMISOM Level II Hospital in Dhobley for eight months and discharged in May 2020.

In addition, Kenyan Contingent in AMISOM IX has established upper primary school classes six, seven and eight at Hoosingo Primary School that will see local children within Hoosingo get an education. The three classrooms were equipped with desks and teaching aids.

KDF Carpenter making desks to be Nyakundi issuing farm tools to farmers in Dhobley. distributed to schools across the sector

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Dhobley’s Miracle Girl How KDF medics helped Somali girl win battle of her life

By Captain James Chumo

“My daughter has fully recovered and I am happy that I can now take her home,”

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ne year ago, few had besides the escharotomy,Naimuna Journey home hope that Naimuna underwent several other procedures, Mohamed Baale would including blood transfusion. Thanks to the care and specialized live. The two-year-old treatment at the KDF medical team had tipped over a pot “She had 40 per cent total body at AMISOM Level II Hospital, seven of boiling water at the family’s home surface area burns. We took her months later, Naimuna was healthy, Oin Hoosingo town, Jubaland State. through successive surgeries which happy and ready to go home. involved the removal of scarred By the time her mother found her, tissue. In her case the scarred tissues Lieutenant Colonel David little Naimuna had been severely were also infected,” Dr. Munyuko Ndung’u, AMISOM Level II Hospital scalded and was in excruciating pain. said. Commandant, said Naimuna’s was Doctors said she suffered burns on the first case of serious burns they up to 40 percent of her body which, at Part of Naimuna’s care and had treated. For him, the quality of her tender age, was life threatening. management included weekly care and dedication to Naimuna is an cleaning and dressing of her wounds enduring example of AMISOM’s, and Her father, Mohamed Baale, said to ward off infections and quicken specifically KDF’s, mission to provide he first took Naimuna to Dhobley lifesaving interventions in Somalia. General Hospital but given extent of the burns, he nearly lost hope. It The day that Naimuna was discharged broke his heart to see his little girl “She had 40 from hospital was emotional, sad and suffer with what must have been happy. KDF soldiers stationed at the indescribable pain as she was per cent total Dhobley Forward Operating Base undergoing treatment at the hospital. body surface who had dedicated themselves to That Dhobley General Hospital taking care of Naimuna for seven lacked expertise in the treatment and area burns. We months were emotional and sad to management of severe burns dashed see her go, for she had become one any hopes that Baale had about his took her through of them. But they were also happy daughter pulling through. that the Nomad Girl had won the successive battle against the burns that had “When I brought her to Dhobley threatened her life. General Hospital she was in a very surgeries which critical condition and I thought I AMISOM staff threw Naimuna a was going to lose her. The first three involved the farewell party, baked her a big cake months she was in hospital were the and sent her off with gifts. worst. I almost gave up on her,” he removal of scarred says. In the yard of Level II Hospital is a tissue. In her tree that was planted in her honour, How help arrived to remember her bravery and her case the scarred infectious smile that won over Naimuna’s luck turned for the better tissues were also everyone. on October 3, 2019. infected,” The Dhobley District Health A week into her stay at Dhobley Coordinator, Noor Bihi Osman, who General Hospital, a team of Kenya was at Naimuna’s farewell party, DefenceForce (KDF) medics serving the healing process. Since Naimuna’s thanked AMISOM, and specifically under the African Union Mission mother had remained at home to KDF,for their unwavering support in Somalia (AMISOM) visited take care of her other children and in provision of health, education, the hospital as part of a medical livestock, KDF nurses had to double security and humanitarian assistance outreach programme. On seeing up as medics and mother to her. to the people of Somalia. how critical Naimuna’s condition was, II Leonorah Oduor, they recommended her transfer to recounts how a close bond between “She was in a bad condition when AMISOM’s Level II Hospital, also in the soldiers and the baby developed she was brought here and we did not Dhobley. during the seven-month long think she was going to survive. They recovery journey. saved her life,” Osman said. That is when her long journey to recovery started. She underwent an “In the process of taking care of the “My daughter has fully recovered escharotomy; a surgical procedure to little angel, we developed a special and I am happy that I can now take treat third-degree burns on the skin bond with her so much so that we her home,” said Naimuna’s father. which involves incising through areas regarded her as our own baby.We of burnt skin. Major (Dr) Ephantus fondly christened her, the Nomad Munyuko, who took part in the surgery Girl,” she recalls. and care of baby Naimuna, said

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Operation Fagia Msitu: Changing Attitudes One Project at a Time By Colonel David Chesire

he multifaceted security The drive to engage in CIMIC activities environment in Boni region in the enclave is service to humanity has negatively affected in the grim face of humanitarian The projects the local economy and difficulties affecting the region at the development, resulting in height of insecurity in 2014. undertaken by humanitarian challenges among the Tlocal communities. Some parts of the region, experience stakeholders scarcity of water, inaccessibility due Because of these challenges, the multi- to non-existent or dilapidated road have positively agency security team deployed in Boni network, famine and floods. recognises the need to engage local impacted on communities in initiatives to improve OFM’s engagement with the local living standards. population in CIMIC and humanitarian community assistance rests on the basic Codenamed “Operation Fagia Msitu” humanitarian principle of humanity development. (OFM), the multi-agency security and the “last resort” principles of operation continues to pursue Civil- unique capabilities and timeliness. Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities, undertake humanitarian assistance and support local administration alongside its primary security role.

Commander OFM Colonel David Chesire distributes face masks to children

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Some of the direct assistance activities undertaken by troops in OFM include medical outreaches, airlifting relief aid and evacuation during emergencies. OFM also undertakes infrastructure rehabilitation such as repair of roads, bridges and construction of water pans, among others.

Key Leader Engagement and partnering with Countering Violent Extremism teams to build strong and mutually-benefiting relationship with the locals continue to be enhanced.

OFM interaction and cooperation with the regional leaders and other stakeholders has helped foster the Operation’s objectives. The projects undertaken by stakeholders have positively impacted on community development. OFM has been instrumental in the reopening of schools within the enclave. For instance, teachers have been hosted in the Forward Operating Bases, conveyance of teachers and pupils to schools as well as airlifting relief food for the school lunch programme.

The multi-agency security operation’s involvement in humanitarian civil actions is expected to yield great dividends to the local communities while collaborative efforts with the local leadership and the community will accelerate the return to normalcy.

Commander OFM Colonel David Chesire engaging members of the public in Galili Location in Garsen Sub County during a Key Leader Engagement meeting.

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Kenyan troops water harvesting project quenches Burgavo’s thirst

By Major Evance Okoth

hile the Kenya system was inefficient because of the Then the team came up with the idea Defence Force (KDF) unpredictable tidal changes in the sea. of constructing underground water troops in Somalia’s tanks for storing harvested rain water. A main challenge is to design of a hyperextended roof and an combat al-Shabaab underground water tank was designed and other insurgents and ensure the and approved for construction. The WHorn of Africa country returns to state hyperextended roof provides a The hyperextended of peace and stability after decades of large surface area which maximises war, the soldiers face other challenges roof provides a large harvesting of rainwater and channels in their mission. surface area which it to a 60,000-litre underground tank. One of them is learning to cope with maximises harvesting The project, which was undertaken harsh weather conditions and an within two and a half months, was unforgiving terrain. Troops stationed of rainwater and officially opened on August 25, in Burgavo understand this only too 2020 by Commander Kenya Army well. Hot, windy and dusty, Burgavo is channels it to Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton. punishing even to the locals, let alone a 60,000-litre visitors from another country. Not only has the project solved the underground tank. troops’ water problem, the local Add to this the chronic shortage of community also benefits from the clean water and Burgavo becomes a water, thus reducing the distance candidate for hell on earth. To access people have to cover in search of clean water, KDF troops and locals water in Burgavo. sometimes have to travel as far as Ras Oddo or Kiunga 46 and 70 kilometres away respectively.

To make it worse, the roads to these places are full of corals that contribute to the degradation of vehicles.

When the Ranger Combat Team was deployed in the area, they decided to come up with a lasting solution to the water shortage problem. But developing with workable plan proved not as easy as it was initially thought. For instance, the troops’ attempt to harness ocean water by installing pipes from the ocean to convey water to their camp was short lived.

The water was stored in plastic water tanks and purified by ROWPU (Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit) machine. But after just one Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter month, the troops realized that the Koipaton inspecting the underground water tank.

18 Majeshi Yetu Protect and Serve Drops of Life By Sergeant Leonard Boge

or as long as residents of The animals lose out the first part of Larisoro is one of the worst-hit areas Samburu can remember, this fight and die in their hundreds. of Samburu County. During the hardship has been the most But in an area where one’s wealth is Armoured Brigade Command Post dominant theme of their lives. measured by the size of their cattle Exercise in the area in March 2020, F herd, the locals are the ultimate losers we witnessed women and children The semi-arid region tucked in the when their animals die. They are, trekking long distances in search of Eastern part of Kenya has watched as hence, trapped in a vicious cycle of the precious commodity. drought replaced drought with each poverty. passing season. The leadership did not falter to The meagre resources, water and intervene in having observed the The extreme weather conditions, pasture, also sets the stage for potential situation. Swiftly, the military extended coupled with poor infrastructure, conflict between communities. a helping hand to the community expose the vulnerable populations to in Larisoro by distributing water to harsh conditions and has kept them Furthermore, the situation has left them the various Manyattas using water lacking the most basic of needs. vulnerable to disease. Samburu’s high bowsers. child mortality rate can be attributed to Water, for domestic use and their the lack of adequate clean water. In two weeks, we supplied water to livestock, is a rare commodity. more than 1,500 residents. While our Samburu residents are pastoralists, but “While our efforts may efforts may have just been a drop in the drought has cast them in a conflict the ocean, it created a positive impact for survival with their animals. have just been a drop in on the community. the ocean, it created a During that period, locals had time positive impact on the to concentrate on other activities community” rather than search for water. This act of kindness shows the positive impact that the Kenya Army can have on the community and the potential of doing more with increased operations.

Kenya Army water bowser distributing water to residents of Larisoro in Samburu County on 21st March 2020.

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Together in Tough Times “These relief supplies provide basic needs to vulnerable populations and significantly lessen the effects of disasters on their lives”

By Major H K Sanders

n the recent past, Kenya has faced On various occasions, KACT has carried KACT has successfully tragic, disastrous and complex out relief distribution including, water emergencies such as famine and supply, transportation of foodstuffs participated in numerous floods, among others. and medical services, among others, in relief distribution by I emergencies. supplying food, water Such disasters have killed many people and displaced many more in Coordination, synchronisation and and livestock-feed in their wake. Survivors of such calamities organisation of the humanitarian various parts of the often emerge on the other side with relief operations are carried out jointly crushed livelihoods. with NGOs and other government country mostly during agencies. famine and floods. In such occurrences, Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) These relief supplies provide basic dry pellets to Marsabit, , Meru, are charged with efficient humanitarian needs to vulnerable populations Tharaka Nithi and Garissa counties to supply to the affected vulnerable and significantly lessen the effects of mitigate the effects of drought. population. disasters on their lives. In the same year, KACT distributed However, large scale emergencies Locally, KACT has successfully over 10,000 bags of rice, more than pose a constraint on the NGOs’ relief participated in numerous relief 500,000kgs of dry pellets and almost supply and distribution capability. distribution by supplying food, water 2.5 million litres of water. and livestock-feed in various parts of In light of this fact, the Kenya Army the country mostly during famine and Beyond our border, KACT has has been called upon to augment floods. distributed humanitarian relief to these efforts by providing the logistic neighbouring states in times of component that supplements the In 2019, many parts of Kenya were disaster. NGOs response to emergencies. affected by drought resulting from the poor short and long rains. Notably, in 2016, KACT delivered The Kenya Army Corps of Transport mattresses, iron sheets and blankets (KACT) plays a significant role in KACT was tasked to provide to residents of Bukoba, in the United facilitating the logistical operations in transportation resources that delivered Republic of Tanzania, who were the Kenya Army. relief supplies such as water and affected by an earthquake. Learning in progress at Kahawa Garrison Secondary School.

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Harnessing the Power of The Pen By Major Lilian Wanjiru

“Like other public institutions, military-sponsored schools provide the key to learners, mostly from poor backgrounds, to pursue their dream careers”

ducation is a means of The Kenya Defence Forces has framework, and the execution and advancing shared prosperity, committed significant resources implementation of the education peace and stability. It is to improve schools in its military policy in military-sponsored schools essentially a foundation establishments across the country. are in line with the Education Act. for good citizenship and a cornerstone to instilling order in a The schools are spread across the Besides, the government, through Eworld laden with complex problems military camps in Embakasi Garrison, the free education funding and facing humanity. Kahawa Garrison, Lang’ata Barracks, Constituency Development Fund, Thika Barracks, Mariakani Garrison, supports their daily running. The role of schools in shaping attitudes Isiolo, Nanyuki, , Gilgil and and skills towards peaceful human Lanet regions. Owing to massive uptake and even relations cannot be understated. more requests for admission from Schooling promotes learning that While such schools enable children local communities, there has been a bolsters human development and of the military personnel to access need for infrastructural expansion. growth. education, they are open to children from the communities around the The institutions, in their commitment However, for most disadvantaged barracks and draw 80 per cent to better the lives of the neighbouring populations, accessing education is a enrolment from these communities. communities, have responded to this challenge, hence the need to develop need. schools to meet this need. Their Boards of Management are within the Ministry of Education’s The Kahawa Garrison Secondary School started in 2003, for instance, serves Kasarani Constituency and attracts learners from estates in the area; Githurai, Kahawa Wendani and Roysambu.

The school has been expanded to meet the growing demand and now features three streams per class, up from one stream.

The Embakasi Garrison Primary School that has more than 1,300 children has also been expanded to handle its growing student population.

Seven out of 10 learners at the institution are from the surrounding estates – Embakasi, Nyayo, Fedha, Utawala, Kayole and Soweto.

Like other public institutions, military- sponsored schools provide the key to learners, mostly from poor backgrounds, to pursue their dream Learning in progress at Kahawa Garrison Secondary School. careers.

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Greening The Nation: One Tree at a Time By Major Alex Hinga

omething beautifully green Two and a half acres of land at the There has also been noticeable is happening in the Western KMA was placed under indigenous interest by military personnel to take Command (Westcom). The trees, and after two years, the project is up forestry in their homes, for aesthetic Kenya Army is getting its showing remarkable success. and commercial purposes. hands dirty, all for a cleaner In the past two years, the Kenya Army environment in the Westcom region. in collaboration with Green Belt Focus is now shifting to aspects of S Movement and Kenya Forestry Service solid waste management owing to the Military personnel are excited to be helped transport and plant over half growing military population within the part of this noble march dubbed the a million indigenous trees in Dundori, command. Environmental Soldier Programme Maji Mazuri, Cherangany, Mt. Elgon (ESP). and Mau Complex watersheds. The army, in collaboration with stakeholders such as county The Westcom region experiences The KMA plans to establish a green governments, has initiated major sufficient rainfall, and it only makes wall around the academy and has clean-up activities with an emphasis on sense – as the Kenya Army leadership embarked on fruit farming in affiliated the 3Rs of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. insists – that it is cleaner and, more institutions. Cadets have already importantly, greener. established an Academy orchard. The environment remains a critical component in the attainment of The Kenya Military Academy (KMA) has The direct involvement of the Kenya sustainable development goals. Its established tree nurseries to support Army leadership in the ESP has had a protection and conservation will go the environmental conservation efforts remarkable impact on the success of a long way in the contribution to the by providing indigenous tree seedlings the programme. country’s national defence for the Lanet and Gilgil regions.

These seedlings have been crucial in the regeneration of indigenous forests using a method known as “Miyawaki” named after a revolutionary Japanese botanist.

Through this method, selected indigenous trees are planted close to each other, mimicking natural forest vegetation.

The trees are cared for in the first three years, and they grow a lot faster than they would under normal circumstances, and attain their climax maturity in less than 20 years.

“The army, in collaboration with stakeholders such as county governments has initiated major clean-up activities with an emphasis on the 3Rs of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle”

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Rehabilitation of the Thika - Nanyuki Metre Gauge Railway

Kenya Army Participating to National Development to Improve Livelihoods

By Major W K Karanja

he railway line in Kenya overgrown vegetation and lack of The project benefited the community was established in 1896. maintenance the line deteriorated. during implementation by creating The branch rail lines to the The government set up a multi- employment opportunities through interior parts of the country agency team that included the sourcing of materials locally and were also constructed National Youth Service (NYS), Kenya hiring of casual labourers. around the same time. Among Railways (KR) and led by the Kenya Tthem, was the Nanyuki line that was Army Corps of Engineers (KACE) to In addition, Wathiani Primary built originally from Nairobi to Thika rehabilitate the line. School in Murang’a County was in 1913 later extended to Naromoru renovated during this project. The in 1927 and finally terminating in The KACE key responsibility was to operationalization of the rail line Nanyuki in 1931. The Nanyuki line reinstate the railway embankment will go a long way in revamping serves Kiambu, Muranga, Kirinyaga, and formation. Despite the the economy of the region further Nyeri and Laikipia counties. challenges experienced, the teams easing the transportation of were able to complement each passengers and goods in the region. Due to vandalism, encroachment, other completing the works within landslides, wash away by storms, the timelines set.

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Beads

ofBy Corporal Tabitha Ndolo Health “Clearly, by offering medical aid to the residents, we did not just serve and protect, but we also profoundly touched hearts”

o feel and to be healthy is one For years, residents of Larisoro had I was lucky of the greatest joys in life. Yet, difficulties accessing healthcare, with enough to access to healthcare remains a the nearest medical facility located experience it firsthand select privilege. some 40 km from Archer’s Post. when an elderly lady, a T beneficiary of the medical camp, As medical personnel, we ensure that When the medical camp was set up gave me a beaded bracelet as a our soldiers are in perfect health at all locals, young and elderly, from 50 km token of appreciation to the entire times, and especially so in readiness away came seeking medical services. Kenya Army. for combat. And besides medical care, the Though we only spoke through an In recent times, however, we have medical team provided guidance interpreter, WO II Lekosi Lemakara, heeded the call of the civilian and counselling services and spread her joy and gratitude transcended our population, who we swore by our lives awareness on COVID-19. language barrier. to protect, and extended our services to beyond our military camps. Coupled with the challenge of It was a fulfilling experience attending accessibility was the all familiar fact to the locals and seeing the hearty In March 2020, the Kenya Army of understocked health facilities. The smiles on their faces. set up a medical camp in Archer’s lack of adequate knowledge on health Post, Larisoro, Samburu, during the matters and harsh climatic conditions Clearly, by offering medical aid to Armoured Brigade Command Post further condemned them to a near- the residents, we did not just serve Exercise. miserable life. and protect, but we also profoundly touched hearts. The medical camp was meant to Until March, the locals had vainly attend to our officers’ medical needs. reached out for help from different The harsh realities that greeted us on entities, and when it finally came, they the ground, however, impelled the could not conceal their joy. Brigade’s Leadership to extend the services to the local community.

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Beads of Health

Kenya Army medical personnel assisting one of the residents seeking medical services in Isiolo.

Majeshi Yetu 25 Protect and Serve Unbowed

By Major Francis Lokiringo he 9th Kenya contingent to the African Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) was deployed in January 2020 to undertake peace enforcement.

TAt the same time, an invisible enemy that was taking the world by storm threatened to undermine the achievement of their mandate.

Alarmed by the rapid spread of Covid-19 across the globe, the Kenyan Government, in March 2020, issued a raft of mitigation measures to contain the virus.

The messages echoed resoundingly within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Nations Support Office in Somalia for and to our troops in Somalia. United Nations personnel.

The guidelines were quickly tailored Our officers also sensitised and trained for military environments and the the Jubaland Security Forces and the Kenyan Contingent constituted a task Somalia National Army troops across force to implement the measures as a Sector II and Sector VI on the mitigation means to protect our troops against measures against COVID-19 infection. infection. The sensitisation was extended to While visiting the troops in April locals around the Kenyan Contingent 2020, Lieutenant General Walter camps as a way of creating a watertight Koipaton – Commander, Kenya Army operating environment. During – emphasised strict hand-washing and the exercise, KDF soldiers donated sanitisation, the need to wear face- sanitisers, face masks and soap. masks and social distancing. The spread of COVID-19 has In keeping with the safety protocols, necessitated structural improvement the soldiers developed fabricated at Level I and Level II Hospitals across hand-washing equipment and the the theatre. Isolation centres with Forward Operating Bases improvised ventilators are in place in all the six water dispensers and re-adjusted their AMISOM sectors. operations. Each Level I Hospital of the Kenyan Additionally, KDF also set up Contingent has High Dependency screening points as well as quarantine Unit beds and ventilators for the same. and isolation centres at various establishments. Similarly, with no end in sight for the pandemic supplies to our personnel The centres were set up in Modika have also been ramped up. “…the measures in place will keep Barracks in Garissa County for sub- our soldiers safe as they strive to sectors Central and South, for Despite the unpredictability of quash the extremist Al Shabaab sub-sector North, Embakasi for sectors Covid-19, the measures in place will terror outfit” Kismayo, Mogadishu, Burgavo and keep our soldiers safe as they strive to Raskiamboni, Dhobley for Sector quash the extremist Al Shabaab terror II Headquarters and at the United outfit.

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Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton – Commander, Kenya Army – emphasised strict hand- washing and sanitisation, the need to wear face-masks and social distancing.

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Unarmed, Harmful Enemy By Major O Odondo

“The strategy was simple. Use all the knowledge they had gathered on Desert Locusts and exploit their weaknesses”

n December 2019 a menacing The strategy was simple. Use all enemy invaded Kenya through the the knowledge they had gathered Somalia and Ethiopia borders. on Desert Locusts and exploit their I weaknesses. The enemy, possessing no knowledge of military tactics, relied on its stealth An operation team of the credible as it advanced to within the heart of and mission-capable Kenya Army our territory. embarked on the task to eliminate the locusts. It, the Desert Locust, ran rampage wherever it struck and promised The team operated in four counties; barrenness in fields that were lush with Isiolo, Meru, Samburu and Laikipia. vegetation. There was little doubt as to The control hub was at Isiolo, where all its capability to threaten the country’s planning and monitoring took place. food security. Data on how the Desert Locusts According to researchers, Desert would respond to different climatic Locusts possess a remarkable ability to conditions, their migration trends, life cover massive ground and can easily cycle, feeding trends and breeding, alter their behaviour. They also mutate among others, was vital in countering rapidly to adapt to their changing their on-surge. environment. The team mounted sprayers in affected The unarmed enemy would have areas that were operated electronically caused massive devastation had it by a driver. Most of the operations been left to its devices. Aware of conducted were in Samburu and Isiolo the grimness that lay ahead, our counties, destroying swarms of locusts servicemen and women set in motion covering hundreds of acres. a plan to combat this threat. The teams would spray the fields at dawn when the locusts were still basking and in the evening as they fed, usually after flying over long distances, Desert Locusts thus capitalising on their fatigue. possess a Their deep understanding of wind- patterns also boosted the operation as remarkable ability it allowed them to strike when the wind to cover massive was moderate, as they covered a wider ground and can radius under such conditions. In the end, the enemy was no match easily alter their for the multi-agency task-force behaviour. who, through their effort, averted a catastrophe.

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Unarmed, Harmful Enemy

Ongoing sealing of porous border points by Kenya Army Corps of Sealing Porous Engineers. Border Points

By Major Alex Mwangi

“The closure of the illegal routes will undoubtedly cut down illegal cross-border movements and, in effect, enhance security within the region, and spur economic growth”

oyale, the Northern But unscrupulous traders, who made and other related activities in these Kenya market town a killing from trading in contraband, corridors. located at Kenya’s border and illegal migrants were never short with Ethiopia, has had its of ways to outsmart the authorities The engineering team has excavated share of bad press owing and would repeatedly vandalize the trenches across all illegal routes to to illegal cross-border activities. barriers. the town amid strong resistance from M unscrupulous traders and cartels and The Moyale One-Stop Border Point Efforts to address this challenge have already some order, more so in tax (OSBP) is one of the designated been ineffective, resulting in reduced collection activities, has been restored. entry points along the Kenya-Ethiopia revenue-collection by KRA, despite border that stretches over 779 km. the booming business between The exercise took place at perhaps communities from both sides of the the most opportune time when both As a measure to prevent illegal border- border. countries had closed their borders due crossing, the to the Covid-19 pandemic. erected barriers on undesignated Consequently, the Kenya Army Corps routes to optimize customs operations of Engineers was deployed in the area The closure of the illegal routes will of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to close the illegal crossing-points. undoubtedly cut down illegal cross- that had been hampered by unlawful border movements and, in effect, cross-border activities. Their work involved digging trenches enhance security within the region, to, among other objectives, inhibit and spur economic growth. the importation of contraband goods

Majeshi Yetu 29 Pictorial

rd 23 th June 09 2020 March 2020

Cabinet Secretary for Defence Amb (Dr.) Monica Juma, top KDF leadership and the Kenya Railways officials at Thika Railway Station to inspect the Thika - Nanyuki railway rehabilitation project.

26th June 2020

Cabinet Secretary for Defence Amb (Dr.) Monica Juma addressing Kenya Army personnel during her visit to Headquarters Kenya Army

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09th March 2020

Cabinet Secretary for Defence Amb (Dr.) Monica Juma shares a light moment with Captain Diana Naker during her visit to Joint Helicopter Command in Embakasi.

Majeshi Yetu 31 Pictorial

27th July 2020

Chief of the Defence Forces General Robert Kibochi having a word with Dominic Ouma during his visit to the School of Infantry (SOI) in Isiolo.

06th June 2020

Chief of the Defence Forces General Robert Kibochi addressing soldiers at Afmadhow Forward Operating Base (FOB) during his routine visit to troops in Somalia.

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24th Aug 2020

Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton addressing soldiers at Sarira FOB during his routine visit to troops in Somalia

03th Aug 2020

Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton commissioning Artillery Brigade headquarters in Embakasi Garrison

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15th May 2020

Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton issues a memento to former Deputy Army Commander Thomas Chepkuto during his farewell ceremony at Headquarters Kenya Army

st 01 th May 05 May 2020 2020

A Kenya Army soldier at Gerille FOB explains his role to Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton during his routine visit to troops in Somalia

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24th June 2020

Deputy Army Commander Major General Albert Kendagor firing Kenya Army personal weapon at Kamanga firing range

st 01 th May 05 May 2020 2020

Kenya Army personnel fumigate Nairobi Central Business District against COVID-19

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ongratulations to the Kenya Army on the delivery of the first edition of Majeshi Yetu under the new approach offering rotational editorial control across the Tri-Services. This new approach, championed by the Defence Headquarters Public Affairs Office, allows the Services an exclusive opportunity to convey and promote “In many ways, our gallant Ctheir outlook. This is an avenue to showcase our diverse, officers have touched lives yet complementary roles.

when all they had hoped to The next edition scheduled for December 2020 will be an exclusive Defence Headquarters Edition, followed in April do was offer a helping hand” 2021 by an exclusive Kenya Air Force edition and in July 2021 by an exclusive Kenya Navy edition.

Inscribed in the last 39 pages you read of how our troops have heeded the noble call to serve humanity. From as far North as the Ethiopian border and North East into Somalia, our soldiers strive to create ripples of positive change.

“I alone cannot change the world,” counselled Mother Teresa, “but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” These words uttered generations ago remain relevant to this age.

While in the line of duty, Kenya Army troops have quenched the thirst of residents of drought-stricken Samburu and offered them medical services. They have also been rehabilitating the environment through clean-up and tree- planting exercises in Nakuru. In Boni Forest and across in Somalia, our military personnel continue to engage in humanitarian activities and have offered encouragement in times of distress.

The story of Baby Naimuna’s admission, treatment and discharge from Dhobley’s AMISOM Level II Hospital is nothing short of a miracle and demonstrates the critical support offered by the Medical Corps to populations who faces challenges in accessing life-saving support.

And as you have observed in their stories, Kenya Army troops success in effecting change has been borne from the strong sense of community and brotherhood that they embody. As a result, our troops have forged lasting partnerships with the larger communities neighbouring our various military establishments. In many ways, our gallant officers have touched lives when all they had hoped to do was offer a helping hand.

The military is an inextricable part of society, and our service personnel go the extra mile aware that their Colonel Zipporah Kioko, communities define them and, more significantly, their Colonel Public Affairs and KDF Spokesperson purpose of protecting lives and property.

This edition by Kenya Army reminds us that we cannot change the world alone, but coming together gives us a chance to mould it into what it ought to be.

Hope you enjoyed your reading!

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he Soldiers’ Legacy is a publication of immense educational and intel- The Soldiers’ lectual value to citizens who have an interest in the rich and distinguished Thistory of our defence forces dating from pre-colonial days. The publication is a can- Legacy did exposition of Kenya army’s historical roots and its achievements over time.

The Soldiers’ Legacy shades light on the heritage and culture of one of our most important institutions: the Kenya Army. The publication opens up the army to the Ken- yan youth who would to pursue a career in the army to defend our nation

As you read this book, remember our gal- lant men and women who continue to put their lives on the line to defend out great nation.

H.E. Uhuru Kentatta CGH President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces

gao ya Taifa is the official Kenya Army magazine that features Ngao ya Taifa stories from the Kenya Army personnel and their families. The N52-page magazine is a released annually. The magazine is a candid exposition of the Kenya Army personnel experiences over time. The magazine further opens up the Kenya Army to the Kenyan youth who would want to pursue a career in the Army to defend the nation.

The theme for Volume 2 of the magazine is ‘Serving my Country’ which will be released in December 2020. The magazine will feature stories of the soldier’s experiences while deployed in different areas of the Republic of Kenya and beyond our borders to fulfil Kenya Army’s mandate.

Lieutenant General Walter R Koipaton MGH CBS OGW ‘ndc’ (K) ‘psc’ (TZ)

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