Photo Credit: Brian Iganga
Chief of Defense Forces Francis Omondi Ogolla tragically passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024, during a peacekeeping mission when the plane he was aboard crashed. Alongside him were 11 other military personnel, with 9 fatalities and 2 survivors emerging from the crash.
General Ogolla tragically passed away at 2:20 pm in the Sindar area of Elgeyo Marakwet County. He had departed from Nairobi on Thursday morning to visit troops deployed in the North Rift region as part of Operation “Maliza Uhalifu.” Additionally, Chief Ogolla conducted inspections of ongoing school renovations at Chesitet Primary School, Cheptulel High School, Chepoton Primary School, Ksaa Primary School, and Sablimoi Primary School.
Following inspections at the five schools, General Ogolla proceeded to brief the troops on the security situation in Chesitet, Baringo County. Addressing the troops at the Kainuk Forward Operating Base in Turkana County, he provided strategic guidance. Continuing his engagements, he then journeyed to Chesegon, West Pokot County, where he launched the rehabilitation center at Chiptulel Boys High School.
The General had a scheduled visit to the recruits training school in Uasin Gishu to inspect construction progress at the institution. However, tragedy struck as the aircraft carrying him crashed shortly after takeoff. President Ruto of the Republic of Kenya praised the Chief and his military personnel as "the most vigilant General and gallant officers, servicemen, and women.
General Ogolla's tenure as Chief of Defence Forces was regrettably brief, lasting from April 2023 to April 2024, marking him as the shortest serving in this esteemed position. His untimely demise occurred while in the line of duty, serving his country with
unwavering dedication.
The Kenya Air Force has promptly deployed an air investigations team to ascertain the cause of the tragic crash. In solemn tribute to the General's sacrifice, Kenya will observe a three-day period of mourning, during which the national flag, the Kenya Defence Forces flag, the East African Community flag, and flags representing all military formations will be flown at half-mast in Kenyan Missions
worldwide.
In the wake of Chief of Defence Forces Francis Omondi Ogolla's tragic passing during a peacekeeping mission, Kenya mourns the loss of a dedicated leader and patriot. His final moments were spent in service to his nation, embodying the values of courage and
commitment that define the military profession.
