By Allan Kai 

On the 28th of April, 2023, His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, elevated Lieutenant General Francis Omondi Ogolla to the rank of Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF).

General Francis Ogolla’s journey in the Kenya Defence Forces began on the 24th of April, 1984. Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant on the 6th of May, 1985, he embarked on his service with the Kenya Air Force, honing his skills as a fighter pilot through rigorous training with the USAF and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF). His commitment to excellence led him to train in diverse fields, including imagery intelligence, counter-terrorism, and accident investigation, showcasing his dedication to the Defence Forces.

A distinguished scholar and military strategist, General Ogolla was a graduate of École Militaire de Paris and the National Defence College of Kenya. He held a Diploma in International Studies and Military Science from Egerton University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Armed Conflict and Peace Studies with First Class Honors, and a Masters of Arts in International Studies from the University of Nairobi.

Throughout his exemplary career, General Ogolla rose through the ranks with unwavering determination and leadership. His appointment as the Commander of the Kenya Air Force in July 2018 marked a significant milestone in his career, following his service in various capacities including Deputy Commander Kenya Air Force, Base Commander Laikipia Air Base, Commanding Officer of Tactical Fighter Wing, Chief Flying Instructor at Kenya Air Force Flying Training School, and Operations Desk Officer at Kenya Air Force Headquarters.

His international service includes a distinguished period as an Observer and Military Information Officer in the former Yugoslavia from 1992 to 1993, demonstrating his commitment to global peace and cooperation. As the chairman of the Military Christian Fellowship from 1994 to 2004 and co-Chair of the Association of African Air Chiefs between 2018 and 2019, General Ogolla fostered strong bonds of camaraderie and collaboration within the African military community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, General Ogolla was a devoted husband to Aileen and a loving father to two children, and a proud grandfather. His passion for reading and golf reflects his intellectual curiosity and dedication to personal growth.

General Francis Ogolla tragically passed away in a helicopter crash on Thursday, 18th April 2024, while on official duty in Elgeyo Marakwet. He was accompanied by 11 high-ranking military officers, and was among the 9 officers who tragically perished, with 2 survivors in critical condition.

The nation mourns the loss of a dedicated patriot and esteemed military leader.

President Ruto, in a heartfelt address to the nation, expressed deep sorrow and remorse for the loss, calling for three days of national mourning. During this period, he announced that the Kenyan, Military, and East African Community Flags shall be flown at half-mast as a sign of respect to the late Army General.