Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio awarded Kenya’s retired Lieutenant General Daniel Opande the Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel during the Sierra Leone Armed Forces Investiture Ceremony.
The honor ranks among Sierra Leone’s highest national decorations, granted by the President for exceptional leadership and service in peace restoration and public welfare.
This recognized Opande’s pivotal role in restoring stability, including disarming rebel forces that ended Sierra Leone’s civil war.
General Opande served as Force Commander for the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone from 2000 until 2003, overseeing a major UN peacekeeping operation.
Kenyan Defense Forces deployed to combat one of Africa’s most brutal internal conflicts.
Their mandate focused on stabilizing post-agreement Sierra Leone following a peace deal between the三步 Sierra Leone government and Revolutionary United Front fighters.
Troops facilitated rebel disarmament and assisted former combatants’ transition to civilian life.
Beyond combat duties, Kenyan forces rebuilt schools, clinics, and churches across war-affected regions.
By mission’s conclusion, Kenyan troops secured control over extensive territories.
Additionally, Kenyan forces provided critical security and logistical support for Sierra Leone’s milestone 2002 elections, its first peaceful democratic polling in a decade.
General Opande dedicated his honor to Kenyan soldiers currently engaged in global peacekeeping missions during his acceptance address.
His leadership extended to UN peacekeeping efforts in Namibia, Mozambique, and Liberia, cementing his legacy as an international peacekeeping authority.
The ceremony coincided with the anniversary commemorating Sierra Leone Civil War’s conclusion in 2002, honoring the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces’ sacrifices throughout conflicts and peacekeeping.