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Kenya’s President William Ruto on Thursday, April 18, 2024, announced that the country would observe three days of mourning starting on Friday, April 19, following the tragic death of Gen. Francis Ogolla the former Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) alongside eight others in a helicopter crash.

Ruto also directed that the Kenyan flag be flown at half-mast in the country and at missions abroad.

“Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident in Elgeyo Marakwet. I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces. Together with him in the crash were 11 other gallant military personnel, 9 who also passed on with him and 2 survivors,” Ruto announced.

Among those who died alongside Gen. Ogolla included; Brig. Swaleh Saidi, Col Duncan Keitany, Lt Col David Sawe, Maj. George Benson Magondu (who was also the pilot), Capt. Sorah Mohamed, Capt. Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinywa Mureithi, Sgt Cliffonce Omondi, and Sgt Rose Nyawira.

President Ruto also ordered a team of investigative officers to investigate the accident which shocked the entire nation.

Gen. Ogolla last visited Uganda in April 2022 and witnessed Uganda and Kenya sign a cooperation deal in defence and security matters.

The chopper carrying Gen. Ogolla and eight other officials of the KDF went down and burst into flames in the Kaber area of Endo Ward, Elgeyo Marakwet, shortly after departing from Cheptulel Boys Secondary School on Thursday afternoon.

At the time of the crash, the officials were conducting a tour to assess the security situation and discuss the potential reopening of schools in the volatile border region between West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet.

Ogolla was appointed as CDF last year by President William Ruto. He was among officers in the previous government of President Uhuru Kenyatta who was accused of trying to change the presidential results in favour of Raila Amollo Odinga.

Who is Gen. Ogolla?

According to KDF General Ogolla was a highly respected and decorated military officer with a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

He joined the military in April 1984, and since then, he has held various leadership positions, demonstrating exceptional leadership, tactical expertise, and dedication to duty.

In 2010, General Ogolla received one of the highest honours bestowed upon military leaders; induction into the National Defence College Hall of Fame.

KDF noted that Gen. Ogolla’s military career was a testament to his exceptional leadership, dedication to duty, and commitment to continuous improvement.

He commanded the Kenya Air Force with distinction from July 2018 to July 2021, ensuring its readiness and effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s security.

His promotion to the rank of Lieutenant General in July 2021 and appointment as the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces further underscored his exemplary service and leadership.

Throughout his career, General Ogolla held key leadership roles, including Deputy Commander, Base Commander of Laikipia Air Base, and Commanding Officer of the Tactical Fighter Wing.

General Ogolla’s dedication to continuous learning and professional development was evident in his training as a fighter pilot and instructor pilot with the United States Air Force.

This commitment to excellence extended to his academic pursuits, including a Diploma in International Studies and Military Science from Egerton University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Armed Conflict, and Peace Studies (First Class Honours).

He also held a Master of Arts degree in International Studies from the University of Nairobi. Additionally, he attended prestigious military institutions such as the École Militaire de Paris and the National Defence College of Kenya.

Throughout his career, Gen. Ogolla received numerous accolades and honours for his outstanding performance and leadership.

His role as co-chair of the Association of African Air Chiefs highlighted his contributions to fostering cooperation and collaboration among African air forces,

Gen. Ogolla was not only known for his military prowess but also for his involvement in various organisations and his interests.

He served as the chairman of the Military Christian Fellowship and remains active in community and religious activities.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing golf and indulging in literature. He was married and was a proud father of two children.