Lieutenant Colonel Faith Mwagandi stands as a trailblazer in Kenya’s military, embodying courage, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service.
As a senior officer in the Kenya Navy, Lt. Col. Mwagandi has made history on several fronts, shattering barriers and redefining the role of women in the armed forces.
Her groundbreaking achievements have not only earned her respect within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) but have also inspired a new generation of women leaders across East Africa.
Here is her story as told by WoK,
Early Life and Education
Faith Mwagandi attended Moi Girls Eldoret, where she laid the foundation for a future that would see her rise to unprecedented heights in a traditionally male-dominated field.
She briefly pursued studies at Kenyatta University, but her life took a defining turn when she spotted a newspaper advertisement for KDF cadet recruitment.
The call to serve her country resonated deeply, and she chose to switch paths, embarking on a journey that would see her excel as a leader in the Kenya Navy.
Career Beginnings and Rise in the Kenya Navy
Lt. Col. Mwagandi joined the Kenya Defence Forces in 2007, marking the beginning of a career filled with landmark achievements.
Her dedication and skill quickly became apparent, and she rose through the ranks, gaining valuable experience and establishing herself as an accomplished naval officer.
In 2019, Mwagandi made history as East Africa’s first female warship commander, taking command of the Kenya Navy Ship (KNS) Shujaa, a role she held until 2022.
This historic appointment was not only a personal victory but a milestone for women in the military across the region. Leading one of Kenya’s most advanced warships, she was responsible for overseeing key missions, ensuring crew readiness, and safeguarding Kenya’s maritime borders.
A Stellar Naval Career
Lt. Col. Mwagandi’s expertise is underscored by her training at the prestigious Britannia Royal Naval College in the United Kingdom, where she honed her leadership and naval warfare skills.
Her service on various Kenya Navy vessels, including KNS Galana, KNS Shupavu, and KNS Shujaa, further bolstered her operational experience, allowing her to navigate complex missions both at sea and ashore.
One of her most notable assignments was her role as the Principal Warfare Officer during the midlife refit of KNS Shujaa in the Netherlands.
This mission was crucial for extending the operational life of the warship and required precision, leadership, and a deep understanding of naval engineering and warfare.
Mwagandi also contributed significantly as an instructor at the Kenya Navy Training School, passing on her vast knowledge and experience to future generations of naval officers.
Her role as a navigating officer aboard RV Mtafiti, Kenya’s marine research vessel, demonstrated her versatility, with duties that included ensuring the vessel’s safe passage and contributing to scientific research missions.
Current Role and Leadership
Currently serving as Staff Officer 1 (SO1) in charge of Personnel and Administration at the Kenya Navy, Lt. Col. Mwagandi continues to lead with distinction.
Her role involves overseeing key administrative and personnel functions, ensuring that the Kenya Navy operates efficiently and that its officers and staff are well-supported in their duties.
Her leadership extends beyond military operations, as she also plays a critical role in advancing the cause of women in the military. By breaking long-standing barriers, Lt. Col. Mwagandi has opened doors for future generations of women, not just in Kenya, but across East Africa, to pursue careers in defense and security.
Making History at Mashujaa Day 2024
Lt. Col. Mwagandi’s career reached another historic moment when she became the first female senior officer to command the Guard of Honor (GoH) during the Mashujaa Day 2024 celebrations at Kwale Stadium.
The troops forming the GoH were drawn from the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force, and Kenya Navy, symbolizing the unity of Kenya’s military forces. This moment was not just about military protocol but marked a turning point in the inclusion of women in key leadership roles at national events.
Her appointment to this role was seen as a reflection of the changing dynamics in Kenya’s defense forces, where more women are taking on leadership positions and being recognized for their contributions.
By leading the GoH, Lt. Col. Mwagandi continues to inspire women in Kenya and across Africa, showing that the military is a space where they can excel and lead.
