Kenya Military Announces Key Promotions and Appointments

The Ministry of Defence has unveiled a comprehensive set of high-level promotions, transfers, and appointments within the Kenya Defence Forces, representing a notable transformation in military command structures.
The decisions, sanctioned by President William Ruto as Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, were officially announced through statements issued from Ulinzi House, Nairobi, on Friday.
Within the Kenya Army, Major General John Maiso Nkoimo assumes the role of Deputy Commander, following the retirement of Major General Mohamed Nur Hassan. Brigadier (Dr) Francis Njoroge Kuria has advanced to Major General and been designated Director of Medical Services, while Colonel Mark Joseph Awala has been promoted to Brigadier and will act as Chief of Operations at Army Headquarters.
Colonel Makonani Balata has similarly been promoted to Brigadier and appointed Commander of Langata Garrison, and Colonel Asma Diramo Kofa has been elevated to Brigadier, assuming responsibilities as Chief of Provost at the Directorate of Oversight, Compliance and Accountability.
The Kenya Air Force has also undergone significant adjustments, with Brigadier Mohamud Salah Farah elevated to Deputy Commander.
Colonel Peter Karigih Kariuki has been promoted to Brigadier and selected as College Secretary at the National Defence College, while Colonel Benedetta Margaret Kikechi has advanced to Brigadier and will serve as Chief of Research and Development at the Defence National Security Industries.
Lieutenant Colonel Bernadette Awar Eyanae has been promoted to Colonel and assigned as Colonel Plans and Programs at the International Peace Support Training Centre.
Other significant appointments include Major General William Kamoiro as General Officer Commanding Central Command, Major General Peter Kipketer Limo as Assistant Chief of Defence Forces responsible for Personnel and Logistics, and Major General Edward Rugendo as Managing Director of Defence Forces Welfare Services.
Furthermore, the service period of Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, Commander of the Kenya Navy, has been prolonged for an additional year.
The Ministry highlighted that these promotions and appointments demonstrate the Defence Council’s dedication to reinforcing leadership capabilities and improving operational performance across all branches of service.