In a move that has been met with congratulations from military and political circles, Lieutenant General Francis Omondi Ogolla has been promoted to the rank of General and appointed by Kenyan President William Ruto as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
With a wealth of experience in the military and previously serving as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VDCF), Lt. General Ogolla’s appointment is seen as a strong choice for the top military post, bringing stability and continuity during a critical time for Kenya’s national security.
10 Interesting Facts About CDF Ogolla
- Lt. Gen. Ogolla was born in Nyakach, Kisumu County, Kenya.
- He joined the Kenyan military in 1985 as a cadet officer.
- Ogolla has served in various positions in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), including as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces (VCDF) before his appointment as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) in 2022.
- During his military career, Ogolla has served in various military operations, including in Somalia as part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and in South Sudan as part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
- He has also received several military awards and recognitions, including the Order of the Burning Spear (OBS), the United Nations Medal for Peace, and the African Union Medal.
- Ogolla is known for his commitment to professionalism, discipline, and excellence in the military.
- He is married and has children.
- Lt. Gen. Ogolla is respected by his colleagues and is seen as a strong leader who can steer the Kenya Defence Forces towards achieving its goals.
- As the new CDF, Ogolla is expected to prioritize the modernization of the KDF and enhancing its capacity to respond to emerging security challenges in the country and the region.
- He is considered one of the most influential military figures in Kenya today and is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s defence and security policies.
