Chopper crash: tributes pour in for Kenya CDF Gen. Ogolla
Apr 19, 2024
"Gen. Francis Omondi Ogolla's untimely demise in a helicopter crash is a significant loss for our nation," eulogizes former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Chief of Kenya Defence Forces Gen. Francis Ogolla is seen here during a wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of the Unknown Warrior at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi on October 31, 2023. (AFP)
Charles Etukuri
Senior Writer @New Vision
_________________ Chief of Kenya Defence Forces Gen. Francis Ogolla was among those killed when a Kenyan military helicopter crashed on April 18, 2024. (AFP)
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday described the country's Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Francis Omondi Ogolla, who was killed in a helicopter crash, as not only an accomplished military leader, but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting their beloved country.
“It is with great sadness that I have learned of the tragic passing of General Ogolla, the CDF of Kenya. His untimely demise in a helicopter crash at the Kaben-Cheptulel border between Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties is a significant loss for our nation," said Kenyatta.
"The CDF was not only an accomplished military leader but also a devoted patriot who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our beloved country. His leadership, bravery, and unwavering commitment to duty have made a lasting impact on our armed forces and our nation as a whole."
Kenyatta said that during his time as head of state, “I had the privilege of serving with General Ogolla as Deputy Commander of the Kenya Air Force, and finally as Vice Chief of Defence Forces. During this period of mourning, please accept my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of the other officers of the ill-fated flight. May the memories of these exceptional military officers, who had a profound influence on our nation, bring you comfort and strength in this difficult time.”
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan said, “I have received with great sadness the news of the death of the Chief of Defense Forces of the Republic of Kenya, General Ogolla, and nine other soldiers in a helicopter crash that happened today in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. I send my condolences to the President and the Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces, His Excellency Williams Ruto, all Kenyans, families, relatives, and friends of all those who lost their relatives in the accident. May Allah rest the souls of our brothers in heaven. Amen.”
Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga said, “A terrible day for Kenya: My wife Ida and I are deeply saddened and profoundly shocked by the passing of General Ogolla. We join the nation in mourning his loss. Gen. Ogolla was a true patriot, a highly decorated soldier, and a consummate professional who served our country with unwavering dedication. Our hearts go out to his family, his colleagues in the KDF, and the entire nation as we grieve this immense loss.”
Odinga extended their heartfelt condolences to the families of the KDF team who were accompanying Gen. Ogolla.
“We know that at this moment words will not be enough to console your tremendous grief. We pray the Lord may give you comfort. May the souls of all those who have departed find eternal peace,” Odinga added.
On Thursday evening President Ruto announced Gen. Ogolla’s death saying, “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.”
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary of Defence Aden Duale said, “With profound sorrow, we share the passing of Gen. Francis Omondi Ogolla, a decorated and distinguished Kenya Air Force officer who served our country for 40 years, culminating in his appointment as Chief of Defence Forces. As the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, I had the privilege of working closely with General Ogolla, both as the Vice and Chief of Defence Forces. He was, to me, a brother first, then a friend, colleague, and lastly, a General and a member of the Defense council.”
Duale said his legacy will forever be cherished in our hearts and our nation's history.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and those of the other officers in the ill-fated flight. Rest in peace General,” Duale added.
Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said, “Deeply saddened by the news of the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of 8 KDF forces, including KDF, CDF Gen. Ogolla. This loss is not only felt by Kenya but also by the entire region. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the bereaved and the Government of Kenya. May their souls rest in peace.”
US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman said, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of CDF, Gen. Ogolla, and to all the families of the victims of this terrible crash. I had the honour of working with General Ogolla and had great respect for his integrity and dedication to the Kenyan people. He was a great friend of the United States and helped advance the U.S.-Kenya partnership.”
Who was 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 General 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, General 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,
General 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 to Aileen and was a proud father of two children.
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