The visit was led by Colonel Wilson Yatich, the Commandant of the KAF Training Wing (KTW) School.

Upon arrival, the Officers were received by the factory manager, Isaac Rono, who provided an overview of the factory’s history and operations.

They were given a detailed tour of the tea processing operations, including the stages, from the weighbridge, withering, fermentation, drying, sorting, tasting, sifting, CTC (Cutting, Tearing, and Curling) bins, and finally, packaging.

During the visit, Major General (Rtd) Dedan Gichuru, the Director of the factory, addressed the Officers, expressing his delight at meeting the new Officers.

He shared insights from his long and distinguished career, which began in 1963 when he first took to the skies as an Air Force pilot.

Maj Gen (Rtd) Gichuru spoke of his commissioning and experiences in Kenya, Israel, the ed Kingdom and other parts of the world, reflecting on the valuable life lessons he gained throughout his service.

He recounted memorable incidents that shaped his career and emphasized the benefits of patience, self-respect, and resilience.

“If you cannot change something, let it go and stay focused. Know who you are, believe in yourself, be daring, and never let external influences define you,” he advised.

In his remarks, Colonel Yatich expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit the factory.

He stressed on importance of the visit to the Officers since it equips them with knowledge and skills to invest carefully while in service in preparation for life after retirement.

“We are honoured to be here. Thank you for the important lessons you’ve shared with us. It’s always a pleasure to visit Maramba Tea Factory, and we appreciate the guidance and mentorship on life in general and also life after retirement. Your wisdom is invaluable,” said Col Yatich.

First Indigenous Air Force Commander 

Maj Gen (Rtd) Gichuru became the 1st indigenous Air Force Commander in 1973, at the age of 30, after promotion to the rank of Colonel.

In 1980, he became the 1st Air Force Officer to hold the rank of Major General.

On 14 February 1986, he, once again, took command of the Kenya Air Force from Gen Mohamoud Mohammed after the latter was appointed Chief of the General Staff.

He played an important role in modernising and professionalising the Kenya Air Force, contributing significantly to its growth and operational effectiveness during his tenure.

He is remembered for his dedication and service to the nation.

Major General Fatuma Ahmed, Commander of Kenya Air Force (KAF), presided over the graduation ceremony of the Tufuzu Youth Development Entrepreneurship Program at Moi Air Base (MAB).

This is the second cohort, sponsored by the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) and the Family Bank Foundation.

The ceremony attracted 48 students from various Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) families with an interest in acquiring plumbing and electrical skills.[ez-toc]

Maj Gen Ahmed commended the graduates for their significant milestones and dedication throughout the training.

Ahmed expressed her appreciation to MWAK and the Family Bank Foundation for their partnership in making a socio-economic impact for the children and contributing to the nation’s development.

“I encourage you to use these skills to make a positive impact on your community and the world at large. This is just the beginning; learning never ends. Always strive to gain more skills and knowledge in your field,” she said.

MWAK Chairlady Grace Kahariri congratulated the students for their efforts during the three months of training.

She said the next three months of internship would broaden their opportunities for both corporate and self-employment.

“I believe that as you enter the field, you will apply the theoretical and practical skills you have learned in class. The three-month industrial attachment will equip you with the confidence and practical experience required to penetrate the job market in the vibrant construction industry,” said Kahariri.

The graduates were awarded certificates accredited by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) and the National Construction Authority of Kenya.

They also received toolkits to assist them as they transitioned into the job market.

The first cohort of KDF dependents graduated in June 2023, with a majority drawn from Kenya Army families.

The current cohort mainly comprises Kenya Air Force dependents, bringing the total beneficiaries of the initiative to 98.

Due to its success, MWAK and the Family Bank Foundation plan to run a similar program for Kenya Navy families.

MWAK said its steadfast in its commitment to fostering the empowerment of KDF dependents both socially and educationally.

From a life of despair to graduating as a Kenya Air Force cadet, Edwin Nyarangi has seen it all.

Nyarangi was orphaned at a young age but he didn’t let this dampen his prospects for success.

He recently graduated as a second lieutenant from Kenya Military Academy.

Nyarangi is an engineer and his expertise will add value to the Kenya Air Force.

Jabez Kongo, Nyarangi’s uncle celebrated the achievement while highlighting the challenges his nephew went through.

“Dear Son Eng. Edwin Tom Nyarangi (Omollo). Today, I choose to celebrate you, the last-born son of our late brother Naftal Joma Nyarangi. Your journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite being left a total orphan at a very young age, your resilience and determination have brought you to where you are today. You have truly defied all odds, and for that, we are immensely proud of you,”

Indeed, God’s time is always the best, and your story is a testament to that. As you join the Kenya Air Force family officially today, we know you will serve our nation with humility, honesty, and dedication, just as you always have.” Kondo said.

Kongo added that they are behind Nyarangi and are proud and inspired by his achievements.

WoK previously covered the story of Silas Koech, a man who has persevered through the challenges life has thrown at him.

Koech from the Cheptiret area, Uasin Gishu County rose From a mkokoteni pusher to a bodaboda operator.

His dreams became reality after he graduated from training as a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldier.

The Kenya Air Force (KAF) witnessed a historic moment as Major General Fatuma Ahmed assumed her role as Commander KAF.

Ahmed is the first female Service Commander in the history of the Kenya Defence Forces.

The Change of Guard ceremony, held at Kenya Air Force, Moi Air Base in Nairobi, saw Lieutenant General John Omenda pass the baton.

Omenda moved into his new position as Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF).

He praised Ahmed’s appointment and underlined the importance of supporting her leadership.

Omenda expressed gratitude to the service personnel for their unwavering commitment and urged them to maintain professionalism and integrity in all endeavours.

“I urge you to cooperate with all those you interact with both at work and while conducting your activities. Wave the flag of the Kenya Air Force high while upholding its great name,” Omenda said.

The colourful ceremony was attended by Base Commanders, Senior Officers, Officers, and Service Members.

Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed made history as Kenya’s first female Major General and also the first woman to command the Kenya Air Force.

KDF has never had a woman as a service commander and Fatuma’s rise is a major milestone in the country’s defence forces.

Before President William Ruto promoted her to Kenya Air Force commander, Fatuma served as the Senior Directing Staff Air.

The decorated officer came to the spotlight in 2015 when she was promoted to Brigadier.

This was a position that no woman had held in the male-dominated KDF.

She joined the military in 1983 in the now-defunct Women’s Service Corps.

Moi Forces Academy, Nairobi students were left excited after being gifted an aircraft by Kenya Air Force (KAF).

Moi Air Base (MAB) Base Commander Brigadier Samwel Kipkorir, led a delegation of Kenya Air Force Personnel in a ceremony to donate the Bulldog plane.

According to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the aircraft will be used as an educational aid to aviation students at Moi Forces Academy.

The school is among the few high schools in Kenya offering aviation as an examinable subject.

“To all aviation students, this presents an exciting opportunity. Despite its age, the fundamentals of aviation remain unchanged, laying a solid foundation for your CAREER. I eagerly anticipate seeing you soar in the skies,” Brig Kipkorir said.

The school’s chief principal James Maina thanked KAF for their generosity and support after the donation.

“As a school, we are committed to maintaining and utilizing this gift to its fullest potential. I urge all students with a passion for aviation to see this as a catalyst for achieving their career aspirations,” Maina said.

Malachi Shiundu, an aviation student at the school, got the opportunity to start the aircraft’s engine he expressed gratitude and excitement for the experience.

“This moment will forever be etched in our memories. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Kenya Air Force and eagerly anticipate serving our country as future pilots.” Shiundu added.

The Bulldog aircraft was in service in Kenya Air Force since 1972 until its final flight in November 2023.

The aircraft is a two-seater but can have an option for a third seat.

It’s primarily used for training pilots and was first used in 1971 by the British Royal Air Force (RAF).

The RAF sold off its remaining Bulldog aircraft in 2001 and replaced it with the Grob Tutor.